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WELCOME

Well, what an interesting season autumn
has been. We’ve had glorious sunshine,
dramatic thunderstorms and now a bit of
an Indian summer. Is this global warming
or the weather doing what it does? Does
anyone really know?
The Porthcawl Fashion and
Food Festival has been an
overwhelming success with
many of the businesses and
local townspeople getting
involved in the fortnight’s
festivities.
The Fashion Show at The Grand
Pavilion went without a hitch
and, for those lucky enough
to get tickets, it was a night to
remember. There were singing
waiters, opera singers, and an
awesome fashion show from
Loulou, The Closet, Hats The One
and King Fox. Mark Evans did
a fabulous job as host (and also
belted out a few tunes!). We’re
working on the 2019 festival now
and the creative juices are already
starting to flow!
At the time of writing this,
Penarth Fashion Week is in
full swing and we can’t wait to
feature this in our winter issue.
We’re expanding our online and
social media presence, so if you
haven’t Liked our lovely Vale Life

Choose Life

Facebook page, please do, and
join us on Twitter @ValeLife. We
are also looking for contributors
for our website so, if you have
local history knowledge or just
want to write about the things you
love, please drop me a line and, if
you’re a business and you’d like to
promote your goods or services,
we’d really love to hear from you.
Let’s hope this lovely weather
continues and we can all get out
to the independent businesses
and show them some much
needed love and attention.
Winter is coming…
Jennifer Hobbs-Roberts
Editor
07766 106 701
jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk
uk.linkedin.com/in/jenniferhobbsroberts

VALE L IFE
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Choose Vale Life
If you’d like to promote your
business in Vale Life, please call
Jen on 07766 106701.

Promote your business
Butcher? Baker? Candlestick maker?
Whatever business you’re in, reach
over 35,000 aspirational readers
right across the Vale of Glamorgan
and beyond! For more information
call 07766 106701 or email
jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

Our cover stars
Our front cover stars are the lovely
ladies from Loulou Boutique based
in Pyle Garden Centre. They always
have a fabulous range of clothing
and accessories from much admired
brands. Read more about them on
pages 34 and 35.

VALE LIFE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED US OVER RECENT MONTHS. OUR CONTRIBUTORS,
OUR FAMILIES, OUR FRIENDS (INCLUDING ALL THE NEW ONES WE HAVE MADE) AND OUR ADVERTISERS - WITHOUT
THEM VALE LIFE WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE. WE HOPE YOU LIKE WHAT WE’VE PRODUCED AND WE’LL TRY TO
MAKE EACH ISSUE EVEN BETTER THAN THE LAST AND IF YOU HAVE A STORY THAT YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE, PLEASE
GET IN TOUCH. VALE LIFE IS REGISTERED AT THE BRITISH LIBRARY AS A MAGAZINE ISSN 1757-1723. FOR TERMS AND
CONDITIONS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.VALELIFE.CO.UK

33

AROUND THE VALE
N EW BA R BER S HO P IN R H O O S E

Sun 10am - 4pm

BARBER SHACK
Corey O’Toole has been in the
industry for a number of years
and has built up a good following
from his years in previous
barbers.
He offers traditional styles, fades,
flat tops, patters, scissor cuts full head
shaving hot towel shaves, beards.
Autism friendly. Expect cold beers,
fresh coffee and a great atmosphere.
Walk in appointments are welcome.
“The best place for a haircut in the Vale
without a doubt quality hair and quality
barber”. 5*
Joshua Dimitri

#FB12
If you’re looking for a duo to
brighten up your birthday parties,
weddings, funerals, BBQs, bar
mitzvahs, baptisms, product launches
or any special event, you’ll be in safe
hands with FB12.
Jake and Andy will enhance your event
with popular songs from across the
decades and are available for booking.
Their repertoire can be tailored to your
tastes and, we’re reliably informed, they
haven’t been thrown out of any venues
to date (or had anything thrown at
them).
For bookings please message their FB page
m.me/FinishedBy12

WE’RE HIRING!

Good Life Publishing are looking for experienced media
salespeople in Cardiff
Please email your CV and salary expectations to
jennifer@goodlifepublishing.co.uk

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WINTER 2017

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The SouTh WaleS ValleyS’ Premier lifeSTyle magazine

Autumn and winter (well any time really!) is a great time to visit the lovely
market town of Cowbridge. In 2017, the Sunday Times crowned this
town the ‘Best Place to Live in Wales.’ It is jam packed with independent
businesses galore including bars, eateries, service providers, beauty and lots
of boutiques. We’ve highlighted just a few here for you to enjoy.

COWBRIDGE

AWA RD W I N NI NG F LO R IS T IN T H E
HEA R T O F COW BR I DG E

Sara Caroline
Floral Design
Sara is full of creativity and has a
true passion for design and beautiful
flowers.
Stocking an extensive choice of seasonal
and interesting fresh flowers and
plants, as well as the more traditional
favourites. Sara is inspired by nature’s
beauty, texture, colour and form.
Accessories are also available.
Whether you need wedding flowers,
corporate, homes, gifts, funeral
flowers, this is the florist for you.
Very popular at this time of the year
are the floral design workshops.

The Pencil Case &
The Toy Box
With Christmas coming up,
Cowbridge has two perfect shops for
children’s gifts.
Tucked away on Willow Walk, The
Toy Box is bursting with toys and
games. There is a wonderful selection
of Orchard Toys games, Le Toy Van
dolls houses, Big Jigs wooden train
sets, classic wooden toys, family board
games and more!
The Pencil Case on Eastgate is
stationery heaven! From an Advent
calendar full of collectible Iwako
erasers to a stylish Leuchtturm bullet
journal or Lamy fountain pen, you’re

sure to find the perfect gift for
stationery addicts of all ages!
The Pencil Case also supplies
official school uniform for all
Cowbridge schools, as well as
Scouts and Guides uniform and
ballet and gymnastics wear.
6

Norma Davies Opticians is an
independent group of practices
established in South Wales for over 40
years. They are dedicated to providing
excellent levels of clinical care and
customer service.
They supply a range of eyewear to suit
different budgets including an extensive
range of beautiful designer frames and
high quality Rodenstock lenses.
They stock exclusive brands which are
not available elsewhere in Wales. If you
would like something truly different
make sure to see the newest arrivals
from one of the world’s largest optical
trade shows in Paris.

Fich+Ramous
of Cowbridge
In the words of Bob Marley, “You
never know how strong you are until
being strong is your only choice!”
After a period of trials, tribulations
and heartache Fich+Ramous is proud
to announce the dawning of a new
era. Lots of new and exciting things
happening at F+R including:
New salon name – Fich+Ramous of
Cowbridge, new premises (71 High
Street Cowbridge). New everything!
New image and face of Fich+Ramous,
Claire Collins and her Team, Hannah,
Jack, Lara, Alice, Jayne, Lauren, Millie
and Orla, offering a range of luxury
treatments.

Product Lines: Revlon EKSPerience,
Kerastraight.
Please join us on our new and exciting
journey! The Team at Fich+Ramous of
Cowbridge look forward to welcoming
you all to our new salon and you are all
cordially invited to join us at our launch
event on 15th November 2018.
Adventures begin at the end of your
comfort zone!
7

New Style Ushi’s
To mark the start of the new season,
Ushi’s have had a fabulous new makeover to showcase more
Fashion – Handbags – Jewellery –
Accessories & gorgeous Girly Gifts…
This contemporary boutique in the heart
of Cowbridge offers excusive designer
labels such as Elisa Cavaletti, Grizas
& Simclan to name a few – alongside
easy, affordable styles! Whether you’re
looking for an instant wardrobe update or
something a little special, Ushi’s has it all.
Ushi’s
44 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AG
01446 773552
www.ushis.co.uk

A M Y L OV E S H E R N A I L S !

would highly recommend them.”

Lemon Tree
Nails & Beauty
There’s no better advertising than a
happy client. Any Walter Bresner
from Ystrad Owen has been going
to Lemon Tree since it opened two
years ago. She goes once a fortnight
for her nails and sometimes takes her
daughters Poppy (5) and Millie (10) to
have their nails done as a special treat.
“Jayne does my manis and pedis and I
love them! Jayne’s a perfectionist like
me. I’m really picky and wouldn’t come
here if Jayne wasn’t the consummate
professional that she is. Sometimes I’ll
have a colour and sometimes I’ll go for
a French manicure. I think The Lemon
Tree are excellent value for money and I

“There’s no better advertising
than a happy client.”

5 Penny Lane
Cowbridge CF71 7EG
01446 775533
8

H OMEWAR E AND GI FT EM P O R IU M

STWFF-STUFF
Opening in March, STWFF-STUFF
is one of the newest stores on
Cowbridge High Street.
After establishing a store in Llantwit Major
they wanted to bring the same unique
shopping experience to Cowbridge.
STWFF-STUFF offers the latest on trend
homewares and gifts for newborns,
children and teens, gifts for men,
candles, stationery, books, jewellery,
accessories, bags and cards.
Find inspiration for a gift or a little
something for yourself.

Stores are open Monday-Saturday
9:30am-5pm and Sunday 11am-3pm or
shop online stwff-stuff.co.uk including
the option to pick up in store.

Follow them on Facebook
@stwffstuffuk, Insta @stwffstuff and
Twitter @stwffstuff.

STWFF-STUFF
50 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AH
01446 774055

HOPK IN S L AW S O L I C IT O R S

Professional, friendly
and cost-effective
Offering a one-stop-shop for all
things legal, Hopkins Law Solicitors
should be your go-to when you need
of advice.
They can help with Family Law including divorce, separation, child
arrangements, civil partnership, prenups, care proceedings, co-habitants
and financial claims; Buying or Selling
Property (residential, commercial and
agricultural property), Equity, Release
and Re-Mortgage (lifetime mortgages,
home reversion schemes), Elderly Client
Matters (lasting Powers of Attorney,
Trusts, Wills and Probate and Litigation
(debt recovery, commercial litigation).

With the cold weather and party season just around
the corner, King Fox Menswear in Cowbridge is
bursting with fabulous outfit choices. We catch up
with owner Leila Thornton to find out what are her
favourites at this time of the year.

K ING FOX

This jacket is a meeting of classic
craftsmanship and modern style.
Taking the form of a bomber silhouette,
its minimalist body is complemented
with a detachable collar finished with
genuine shearling for an ultra-soft,
luxury feel.
£650 Aquascutum

These jumpers are crafted from a lighter weight pure geelong lambswool. All Alan
Paine knitwear is fully fashioned; each garment is knitted to shape on the knitting
machine and not cut and sewn. Each sweater has three main component parts: back,
front and sleeves. It is their skill in assembling these parts that is another mark of
Alan Paine quality. Each stitch is linked by hand onto another to give the smoothest
join possible. All Alan Paine garments are finished by hand. The stress points of the
garment – under the arms, the cuffs and the ribs – are all reinforced.
£105
Sport coat, 100% wool
and 100% cotton velvet
waistcoat
£265 and £110

Echo the tones and textures of natural browns with beautiful
wooden furniture and vintage Welsh blankets to recreate a
relaxed, eclectic, rustic look and feel in your home

ch St
Chur idge
r
Cowb 7BB
CF71

6
014491
7711

Happy Days
New Tweedmill
wool blanket

£52

Vintage Salon
chair (recovered
in-store)

7’ rustic plank top table

£175

£350

Vintage Welsh blankets
from

£39

Vintage cushion in
reclaimed fabric

£25

Vintage child’s chair and Harrod’s Teddy

£48 / £35

A C H O C O L AT E S H O P & M O R E

Cocoa & Co
Take a stroll down the pretty Verity’s
Court and you’ll find Cocoa & Co.
A gorgeous chocolate shop offering
a superb selection of tempting
chocolates including gluten free,
dairy free, sugar free and vegan
friendly.
The range of treats is endless, and
includes favours for weddings and
corporate functions - perfect for
Halloween, Christmas goodies, Advent
Calendars and stocking fillers.
Also available are a great selection of
retro sweets, loose handmade chocolates
(which will be beautifully boxed) and,
if you have a pet pooch, you’ll also be
able to pick up some yummy ice cream
for dogs by Marshfield Farm.

“The range of treats is endless,
and includes favours for weddings
and corporate functions.”

CASUA L , S MAR T CLO T H IN G A N D
ACCESSO R I ES TO S U IT A L L

Pebble
If it’s smart/casual you’re looking for,
then look no further than Pebble.
Offering much loved brands including
Maison Scotch, Great Plains, French
Connection, Hatley, Odd Molly and Gant,
there’s something here for every occasion
and every pocket. You can also expect a
very warm welcome and attentive service.
“A lovely range of clothes. Regularly
updated to reflect the seasons and perfect
service. Love this place.”
Rhian Thomas 5*

Visage
Fashion forward women (including
TV celebrities) aged from 25 to 80
years old love to shop at Visage and
it’s easy to see why with brands
including Yest, Vetono, Cream, Naya,
Junge, Moutaki and Capri.
Offering a fabulous selection of
jewellery and accessories with lots of
exciting new lines arriving this autumn.
New this season is the label Cream
which offers a fantastic range of
boutique clothing and footwear.
Visage
13 High Street, Cowbridge CF71 7AD
01446 772345
14

A Cardiff University graduate
who set his sights on a
career in optics during a
school work experience
stint has returned to South
Wales to become a director
at Specsavers in Cowbridge.

SPECSAVERS
Andy Moss, 31, from Suffolk, joins codirectors Hannah Davies and Adam Thomas
at the thriving high street store more
than fifteen years after completing a work
experience stint at Specsavers in Ipswich.
Mr Moss became a part-time optical assistant
in 2002 before completing a three-year course
to become a dispensing optician. In 2010, he
moved to Wales to study optometry at Cardiff
University, graduating as a qualified optometrist.
He worked at Specsavers in Woodbridge,
East Anglia before taking a six-month role at
Specsavers Fremantle in Perth, Australia. Before
returning to Wales, Mr Moss completed Pathway
– a Specsavers programme aimed at training staff
members to become business partners.‘This is
an exciting next step in my career, but I would
be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous,’ he says.
‘Fortunately, everyone has been very welcoming,
and I’m looking forward to using my expertise
to support the growth of the business.’
Mr Moss’ appointment comes just months after
the store was first opened by Ms Davies and
Mr Thomas, who have been directors of the
Specsavers in Talbot Green for the last five years.

MITCHELL E VANS
Mitchell Evans Architects have
recently opened their new office
in Cowbridge. Vale Life dropped
in to find out more about
this dynamic, award-winning
practice. We talked to Associate
and architect Ian Jenkins.
Please tell us about your background?
I was born in Bridgend, and lived with
my family in Kenfig Hill before going
off to university at nineteen years old.
Following my time at university in
Oxford and Portsmouth, I started work
for Mitchell Evans Architects in August
1998 as an architectural assistant at their
offices in Guildford, Surrey. I got married
and we had our first daughter, and, with
news that our second daughter was
due in the Autumn of 2008, we moved
back to Bridgend to be closer to family.
I have continued to work for Mitchell
Evans Architects since the move back
to Wales, and in conjunction with the
practice partners, Ian Bocutt and Toby
Howell, we have decided that this is the
right time and Cowbridge the right place
to formally establish an office in south
Wales.
When did you know you wanted to
be an architect?
My father worked in the building
industry and I became interested in
buildings and design.

By the end of comprehensive school
I knew that I wanted to go into building
studies/architecture and undertook a
two year course in Bridgend Technical
College completing a BTEC in Building
Studies.
Where did you train to be an
architect. Is it a long process?
I undertook my degree in Architecture
at Oxford Brookes University (Part
1), my post graduate diploma in
Portsmouth University (Part 2) and my
professional exams and interviews at
South Bank University London (Part 3).
It is a very long process to become an
RIBA chartered Architect as in addition
to the university courses, which takes
six years, a minimum of two years
practical experience in an architects
practice is required.
What kind of properties and projects
do you work on?
We work on a wide range of properties
and projects, but our main focus
16

and expertise is in the high quality
residential market providing bespoke
design solutions for private clients. The
type of properties and projects include
new build, extensions and renovations
of existing properties, and works to
listed buildings.
Our projects typically range from
£150,000 contract value up to £10
million, with the vast majority falling
between £250,000 and £750,000. We
do also work for small developers with
projects of up to fifty houses where
a bespoke design is the focus. We
have also worked on commercial and
community projects including churches,
sports clubs and golf clubs.
We also specialise in disability projects,
and have undertaken a number of
new build homes and extensions
and adaptions of existing properties providing the specialist accommodation
required, and working closely with the
client’s Occupational Therapists and
Case Managers.

Is the initial consultation free?
We provide an initial free of charge
consultation where we are more
than happy to look at a property or
site with an owner or prospective
purchaser to discuss the potential
development opportunities, and
provide advice in relation to local
planning policies.
What geographical areas does your
practice cover?
Our office is situated in the centre of
Cowbridge so we are perfectly placed
to provide our services to the Vale of
Glamorgan, Cardiff, South Wales and
the South West of England. Our head
office is located in Godalming, Surrey,
with a further office on the Isle Of
Wight so we can also undertake projects
in the South and South East of England.
What sort of clients do you
work with?
The majority of our clients are private
commissions with individuals and
families looking for a bespoke solution

and design for a family home.
We also work with small scale
developers on residential projects, or
institutions such as churches or private
clubs and societies.
What would your dream project
look like?
One of my main inspirations during
my architectural studies was the Swiss
architect Le Corbusier, who pioneered
modern architecture in the 1920s with
individual houses for private clients.
The classic white box architecture
inspired many future generations and a
refined current day interpretation fused
with modern technology overlooking
Ogmore beach would be a perfect
project and family home.
What do you do to relax outside
of work?
I enjoy swimming, walking and cycling,
and also watch Bridgend Rugby Club
when time allows. I have two daughters
of twelve and ten years old who are
members of Pen-Y-Bont Surf Life Saving
17

Club, so during the summer months
most of our weekends are spent at
Ogmore beach. We also have a nine
month old cocker spaniel called Lola
who fits in very well with our lifestyle.

When Samantha Morgan, co-owner of Arboreal in
Cowbridge wanted a new kitchen, she immediately
knew who to talk to. We caught up with Sam
to find out exactly why she chose to work with
Topstak of Llandow.
Where do you live Sam?
I live in lovely St Donats on the Vale of
Glamorgan coastline. I live there with
my family, (Rob, three children, a dog
and two cats). This is a relatively new
move. We will have been there two
years this month.
What do you do as a living?
I have a small independent cafe kitchen
bar with my brother in Cowbridge
called Arboreal. Arboreal captures the
relaxed nature of our environment and
stays true to its concept by cooking
food from our open wood oven. We
love our coffees, cocktails and fresh
juices. We are a Michelin Guide Eatery
and ,as a small independent, we really
like to look after our customers.
Arboreal is like another child. It takes
a lot of care and attention to keep it
moving forward. This year celebrates
our 8th anniversary in Cowbridge.
How did you hear about Topstak?
I have always known Topstak since I
re-located to the Vale of Glamorgan
from London.

Adam Pedersen and Rob were at
school together. Topstak are my
instant go to for wood, fires and
now kitchens. The quality of their
products is excellent as is their
customer service and support. The
business has a fantastic forward-looking
edge to it that always keeps the design
aspects of their products more than-up
to-date.
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure a lot of care and attention goes
into their research and development. I
not only love their fires and kitchens, I
love their lights and BBQs too! I wish I
could have all their products.
Why did you choose Topstak to
design and fit your new kitchen?
Chris Pedersen and I would often talk
about interior design and new interior
designs styles hitting the UK when he
and his wife Lynda visited Arboreal.
Chris was incredibly inspirational when
dealing with any aspect of design and
I would always appreciate our time
spent on talking about various new
innovations hitting different countries.
He was very knowledgeable.
18

When we moved to St Donats, I asked
Chris about kitchens and asked if
he would perhaps come and look at
our new space and see if we could
potentially use an ex-display Topstak
kitchen in our home to keep our costs
down, as we were dealing with quite a
substantial refurbishment.
Topstak were more than helpful at every
stage of the buying process. They had a
beautiful Eric Christian kitchen, which
is one of their own designs, and we
were delighted to think that we were
going to have it.
Who did you work with at
Topstak?
I worked with Christian and Steven,
their kitchen designer, when
putting together ideas for our
kitchen design. Topstak were
extremely patient as there was no
room for error. Christian was brilliant.
The brief was to use a more traditional
kitchen but introduce more of a
contemporary twist, so the design
combined old and new in a rather old,
listed building.

Did you have an idea of the kitchen
you wanted, or did they come up
with suggestions?
Yes and no - the process was mutually
perfect. I would show images of styles
and designs I liked, and we would look
at all the essentials of kitchen design
from Topstakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s potential and integrate
the two. Topstak were excellent
recommending space suggestions,
larder options, new modern features,
worktop solutions and unit designs.
They definitely ensured the kitchen
design was 100% perfect and included
every facility us as a family needed. We
also looked at lighting, electrics and
waste.
How did you find the design
process?
The design process was longer than
hoped for as so many important
decisions needed to be made. But
Topstak were very patient and were
thrilled when the design was complete
and I, as a customer, was so excited to
get the production on way. The process
took around twelve weeks from start to
completion.

What difference has the new kitchen
made to the way you use the room?
As a family, we spend around 65% of
our time in this space. As far as the
house is concerned, our new kitchen
has transformed our space. The
colours and styles of the units are just
beautiful. The functionality brilliant and
I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to change any of the
design.

with soft close technology. Hand
painted with a large range of colours or
option to leave undecorated to paint
on-site. Topstak have a good team who
are always looking at innovative new
design.

Would you be happy to recommend
Topstak to others?
Absolutely! Their products and services
are impeccable.
What makes an Eric Christian
kitchen special?
These kitchens are high quality,
bespoke, rigid kitchens. They are
hand-made by skilled craftsmen,
using the finest traditional
woodworking methods. They are
in-frame and lay-on designs. Curved
door units are available. Frames and
doors are made from tulipwood,
a durable hard wood. Drawers are
traditionally dovetailed and made from
tulipwood with full extension runners
19

Tallia in Cowbridge celebrates its first year this
month. This gorgeous boutique on the high
street is certainly growing in popularity; not only
for the range of brands but for its unrivalled
customer service and attention to detail.

TALLIA

Vale Life chatted to owner Sue Jones
to find out more.
When did Tallia open its doors?
I opened Tallia on the 5th of October
2017.
Who owns Tallia?
I am primarily in the shop on my own
but I’m lucky enough to have help from
my daughter Victoria when she can.
Do you live locally?
I have lived in Cowbridge most of
my life, which definitely has made a
difference as everyone has been so
supportive and friends call in for a chat.

“Winter is my favourite
season for clothes.”

Who are your customers?
I cater for ages 25 upwards with
sizes ranging from 8 to 22. I have
tried to keep to an affordable smart
casual look that you can wear to a
variety of occasions with brands such
as Javier Simorra, K-design, James
Lakeland, Tivoli and Femme. For the
everyday basics there is Kaffe, Liverpool
jeans, Luella knitwear and Jorli
knitwear. For the special occasions we
have Tia and Apanage.
What about accessories?
I also sell accessories such a
jewellery from Isles & Stars and
Zelly and handbags from Zohara and
Punch. And for the winter there is
a new brand Lemon Collection
which consists of cosy hats, gloves
and scarves.
20

What do you love about the autumn/
winter collections?
Having been here for a full year
now, I feel more established and
hopefully have something for everyone.
Winter is my favourite season for
clothes as I love being wrapped up
warm and cosy. The brands that I
have will keep you warm but also
comfortable. There is plenty of
knitwear, with or without, wool or
cashmere to choose from. I’m especially
excited about our eveningwear - perfect
to get you ready for the festive season.
Where do your customers come
from?
My customers come from Porthcawl,
Bridgend, Llantwit Major, Penarth and
Cardiff. We also see a lot of visitors that
pass through whilst on holiday.

Where does your passion
come from?
I love it when I’m helping a customer
choose an outfit and get excited when
they ask for my advice. I get great
satisfaction when a customer comes in
not knowing what they are looking for,
especially when it’s for a special occasion
and go out with an outfit that makes
them smile and, more importantly, feel
good in how they look. My main policy
is to be honest with a customer and
never say they look nice just for a sale.
What do you think makes
Tallia special?
I hope at Tallia we provide a friendly
and helpful service that makes
customers feel comfortable and want
to come back, whether it’s to buy
something to wear, or just for a chat.

Hopefully I offer something a bit
different, a bit unusual that will make
you stand out from the crowd.
TESTIMONIALS

What customers say
Fabulous shop with affordable
clothes for day and evening Helpful
friendly staff. Michele Cottle 5*
Great women’s boutique on the
high street. Just what Cowbridge
needs. Lovely clothes and staff
are so friendly and welcoming.
Charlotte Jones 5*

“We provide a friendly
and helpful service.”
21

Tallia
41 High Street
Cowbridge
CF71 7AE
01446 772770

When Suzy Parkes and Welsh rugby player Hadleigh Parkes needed outfits
for their recent wedding, their choice of designers was almost poles apart.
Vale Life caught up with the happy couple to find out more.

TRUE ROMANCE

Where did you meet?
We met through some mutual friends,
I was living with them and Hadleigh
and his brother, who are originally from
New Zealand, came around for dinner
one night. We then met each other out
one night and it all really started from
there.

Where did you get your dress?
Jane Yeh, a New Zealand designer, she
was absolutely incredible!

Where did you choose to get
married?
We got married at Kauri Bay Boomrock,
Clevedon, NZ. It is a beautiful lodge
located just outside of Auckland on
a working sheep and beef farm. The
venue provided buses for the guests
from Auckland CBD and it allowed us to
have both the ceremony and reception
in one place. Kauri Bay Boomrock
suited us perfectly because Hadleigh’s
family is from a farm so being just
outside Auckland we thought it really
represented both of our families. We
were so lucky because it was a beautiful
NZ winter’s day and were able to
get married outside, in front of the
incredible view.

Why did you choose Hawkes for
the suits?
Hawkes was quickly becoming one
of Hadleigh’s favourite shops in
Cardiff. He had already purchased
a couple of suits and shirts from
Russell for a couple of weddings
and they were always so helpful, the
suits are great quality and always
received multiple compliments when
wearing them. Also something a bit
different, not just standard suit and
tie and Russell’s eye for detail is
exceptional.

Where did you get the groom’s suit?
And the suits for the men of the
party?
Hawkes, Morgan Arcade, Cardiff.

What was working with Russell from
Hawkes like?
More like working with an old mate,
makes you feel so welcome - does not
just talk suits you get into all sorts of
conversations. Listens to your ideas/
wants and also suggests different
options - at the end of the day he is the
expert! Nothing was too much trouble
either. Russell even gave us two pairs
of pants to take back to NZ for one of
the groomsmen as he didn’t trust his
measurements he gave!
What style of suits did you go for?
Roy Robson - suits. Dark Blue with
a multi-coloured tie to match the
bridesmaids dark red dresses.
How long did the suits take to make?
The groomsmen were fitted/
adjustments made and within a week
they were ready to be collected.

“Hawkes was quickly becoming one of Hadleigh’s
favourite shops in Cardiff.”
22

Were you pleased with the outcome
of the suits?
Extremely pleased - the men all looked
so smart in the suits, the groomsmen
were absolutely stoked with them and
they look great in the photos.
How were they received on the day
by guests?
A couple of guests commented that they
were the smartest suits they had seen so
it doesn’t get much better than that.
How did the wedding ceremony go?
Where did you get married?
The ceremony and reception were both
at Kauri Bay Boomrock, Clevedon,
NZ. We got an incredible winter’s day
so were lucky enough to get married
outside. Our celebrants were very
good family friends of the Parkes, who
have actually married all of Hadleigh’s
brothers too so that was really special
having them a part of our big day. Our
oldest siblings signed the wedding
register, and Hadleigh’s brother Scott
did a reading.

If you could change anything about
your day, what would it be?
Would not change a thing - it was
absolutely perfect.
Did you go on honeymoon, if so
where did you go?
Straight after the wedding we headed
down to the Parkes farm to spend
some time with Hadleigh’s family
and the nieces and nephews. I think
the first night we slept for about
11 hours we were so exhausted!
We then headed off to Borneo and
Vietnam. We spent 8 days in Borneo –
climbed Mt Kinabalu, snorkelling
at Sipadan Island, going to see the
orang-utans and enjoying the
incredible cuisine.
We then went to Vietnam for twelve
days - managed to get to Hanoi,
Sapa Valley and Hoi An. Loved hiring
scooters, hitting the beach, shopping in
the markets and enjoying cocktails on
roof top bars watching the incredible
sunsets.
23

How has married life changed
you both?
Honestly, not a lot! Life has returned to
normal and we are back into routine work, gym, tennis etc. It is still exciting
being able to introduce Hadleigh as
my husband and have not got used to
having a new name yet!
See the full interview online at
www.valelife.co.uk

The Brogue Trader in Cardiff ’s Morgan Arcade is a real success
story. Launched by Chris Macnamara in 2013, it has established
a much deserved reputation for customer service and for
supplying a selection of the finest handmade shoes, leather
goods and accessories - many of which are British brands.

SIX A PPEAL
The Brogue Trader is a true, familyrun business in every sense. The
company now employs Chris’s
two sons, Keiron and Daniel, and
daughter Stacey, something Chris
is extremely proud of. Since opening
its doors in Morgan Arcade five
years ago, the business has grown
year on year and now, in partnership
with Loake shoes, Chris opened
their tenth shop recently in
Manchester.
Along the way, The Brogue Trader
has won countless awards and, most
importantly, a loyal clientele not only
from Cardiff and across Wales, but
across the UK and many who order
online through the company’s website.

At the heart of The Brogue Trader ethos
is superb customer service. Chris and
his team are incredibly passionate and
go out of their way to ensure customer
loyalty is appreciated. To further reward
customer loyalty, they came up with the
Six Pair Club*, and they seem to be the
only shoe company in the UK offering
this type of loyalty scheme.
Owner Chris said, “Basically, you buy
six pairs and your seventh pair is free!
We have found that it creates loyalty
and commitment from the customer
and we repay that by giving away a
free pair.”
Talking about great service and
great brands, Chris and his team only
24

stock what they consider to be the
very best, including historic British
brands such as Loake, Crockett &
Jones, Trickers and Oliver Sweeney, to
guarantee excellent quality in every pair
of shoes they supply (they even offer a
home service).

The loyalty scheme has been a real
success with Six Pair Club customers
qualifying for their free seventh pair
right across the country. “Ultimately,
we’re a product of great customer
service, “says Chris, “at The Brogue
Trader, every member of our team
understands that the customer always
comes first. This, we believe, is why
we’re so successful and customers show
us such great loyalty.”

Well, what can we say but what a huge success the Porthcawl Fashion and
Food Festival was! Vale Life were delighted to be involved in helping to
promote what we are sure everyone will agree was a fabulous festival.

PORTHCAWL
FASHION & FOOD FESTIVAL
It brought the independent
businesses of the town and the
community together to help raise
footfall to the town and to raise
much needed funds for such a
worthwhile charity that is the
Porthcawl RNLI.
Vale Life would personally like to
thank all of the committee members
who worked so tirelessly behind the
scenes and to the business owners who
took part so enthusiastically. Here’s to
next year!

After months of planning and many
hours of hard work by a dedicated team
of organisers, the first Porthcawl Fashion
& Food Festival has come and gone.
We were fortunate indeed to enjoy the
support of a cross section of the business
community in Porthcawl, from the early
days of the project until the event itself
at the beginning of September, when
latecomers joined on their own initiative.
The Gala Dinner and Fashion Show at the
Grand Pavilion, which was the final event,
was a huge success.

The purpose of the Festival was to
afford local businesses the opportunity
to showcase their enterprise whilst
at the same time raising funds for
Porthcawl RNLI. From the response
of all involved and the people of
Porthcawl and surrounding areas who
so generously supported the events
we are encouraged to think that the
Festival may become a regular fixture in
the Porthcawl events calendar.
David Shillaw, Chairman
RNLI Porthcawl Fundraising & Events
Group
26

The Porthcawl RNLI held its first ever
Fashion & Food Festival earlier this
month and as with all first attempts,
there are lessons to be learnt and fresh
ideas to grow before the next, but as
a local business owner I see it as an
opportunity to raise the profile of the
town and surrounding area in business
and tourism.
All involved played their part with
great enthusiasm and there was a
camaraderie between shops and
volunteers alike.
The culmination of the Festival was a
Fashion Show and Dinner hosted by the
talented baritone Mark Llewellyn Evans
and included a mixture of opera classics
from WNO singing waiters and a Jazz
band to play out the evening.
A Fashion show consisted of a
spectacular line-up of models wearing
this season’s labels from Loulou
Boutique, The Closet, Hat’s the One,
and King Fox menswear of Cowbridge.
Make-up styling was by Face Factor and
the final scene was heralded by Loulou
Model, Hollie, wearing a dress made
from the RNLI flag with models wearing
stunning headpieces from Hat’s the
One to complete the ensemble.
There was a wonderful atmosphere in
the room and the Grand Pavilion played
its part with a superb three course
dinner and smooth technical support memorable evening fundraising for the
Porthcawl RNLI.
Jayne James, Loulou Boutique
@PyleGardenVillage

Run by its three enthusiastic partners, Jayne James, Debra Davies and
Caroline Hole, Loulou is an independent womens-wear boutiques based at
Pyle Garden Village.

LOULOU BOUTIQUE

The three partners, Caroline Debra
and Jayne from Loulou Boutique
held an Autumn stock preview
fundraiser for the Porthcawl RNLI
Fashion and Food Festival which
included a visit by one of their brand
Managers, Susan Blatt of French
Dressing Jeans.
The aim was to show their customers
the Autumn labels arriving and to
explain about FDJ jeans with a Fit Lab
session to highlight the versatility of
the jeans to dress women of all shapes
and sizes.
Guests enjoyed nibbles and prosecco
and the shop showcased the RNLI dress
specially designed for the Fashion show
and Dinner which was held later in the
week at the Grand Pavilion.
Loulou Boutique
Pyle Garden Village
Pyle, Bridgend CF33 6BJ

“Being involved in the Porthcawl
Fashion and Food Festival in support
of the RNLI has been an honour and
a privilege. This charity, which saves
lives at sea, needs everyone’s help and
support to continue the amazing work
they do every day.” Caroline, Debra
and Jayne.

www.loulouboutique.co.uk
info@loulouboutique.co.uk

33

There are some boutiques that seem to tick every box. Loulou Boutique,
based at Pyle Garden Village is one of those businesses. Not only will you
find fabulous, coveted brands, you’ll be welcomed warmly and guided
through the new season’s fashions by the any of the three owners who each
possess a non-pushy, helpful and honest approach.

LOULOU BOUTIQUE
We chat to one of the boutique
owners, Jayne James, on what makes
Loulou Boutique one of the most
go-to boutiques in Bridgend.
How long has Loulou Boutique been
established?
We first opened our doors in the
grounds of Pyle Garden Village, which
is a garden and shopping outlet during
the Whitsun holiday week of 2012.
Who are the owners of the business?
There are three partners, myself, my
sister Debra Davies and long-time friend
Caroline Hole.
What brands do you stock?
We stock a varied collection of brands
from around the world. Well-known
labels such as Joseph Ribkoff sit
alongside Naya, Masai, Deck, Suzy
D, InWear, Amazing Woman, Blank
London, Brodie Cashmere, Jayley, and
our latest name to add to the eclectic
mix of dressy to casual styles, is a Greek
company called Access.

Who is your typical customer?
We attract women of all ages to
the boutique. Our look is
essentially timeless but with
seasonal trends, shapes and colours to
fuel your imagination and update your
look without becoming a slave
to fashion.

Wardrobe staples like Masai, Deck, Naya
are the go-to brands for our faithful
following of casually dressed women
and, although we are always looking
for a new label to introduce to the
boutique, we never forget that classic
shapes and clever styling will forever be
best-sellers.

What do you love about this Autumn/
Winter collection?
This season we are loving the vibrant
colours, but also look forward
to welcoming back the favourite
winter whites and sharp black/white
combinations. From mustard to
mulberry, khaki to cream, lilac to berry
reds there is a kaleidoscope of colour to
embrace the cold weather.

Do you offer accessories? If so, what
accessories and from which brands?
We have a wonderful collection of
accessories with jewellery, belts from
exclusive Spanish brand Uno De 50,
Envy, Nouvelle, scarves from Blank
London, InWear and Envy. Our bags are
from Tempest, Y Folia, Helen Moore has
some fabulous coloured faux fur tote
bags and Malissa J’s diamante encrusted
bags are perfect for a dazzling occasion.

The greek label Access is also proving
to be a big hit with our younger crowd,
with lots of pearl embellishments and
sequins to make an impression over the
festive season.

34

Where do your customers come
from?
As we are only a mile off the M4
motorway junction 37 at the Pyle
Garden Village - we attract people from
east to west and within the local areas

of Porthcawl, Bridgend, Port Talbot, the
Vale and beyond.
What do you all love about working
at Loulou?
We actually love our job - from buying
at the exhibitions and fairs - to being
excited when the boxes arrive, even
when we panic when it all comes
at once! We have built special
relationships with our customers and
we always try to give honest opinion
and direction if sometimes a customer
is at a loss as to how they should dress.
There is always a warm welcome and
it’s never a hard sell at Loulou - we’re
just happy to see our customers and if
the mood is right and they want to buy,
so be it.
What skills do each of you bring?
We all dress differently but still have
a common interest in the stock we
buy and sell, so we try and bring
different looks to the boutique with our
individual styles. Caroline is the perfect
merchandiser and enthusiastic seller,

Debra is the chatty one with lots of
ideas, I’ve got the boring job of paying
the bills, but I love marketing the
boutique and networking with other
businesses, so that we are all working
together to provide the best service to
our customers.
What makes shopping at Loulou
special?
We are an independently run boutique
with brands not seen on the High street
and we care about how our customers
look. Shopping should be fun with a
capital F and if you don’t see anything
to buy, then there’s always next time.
You recently worked on the
Porthcawl Fashion and Food Festival?
Tell us about that?
I was approached to get involved with
the Fashion and Food Festival to help
raise funds for the Porthcawl RNLI.
Different events were held at various
venues over a ten-day period by local
businesses and the final fundraiser was
a Fashion show and Dinner which took
35

place at the Grand Pavilion with around
200 guests.
My role was to co-ordinate the fashion
show with the help of my partners,
Debra and Caroline at Loulou and
the involvement of three other shops,
The Closet, King Fox menswear and
Hat’s the One. The evening was a
great success after a lot of hard work
from all corners. It’s for a wonderful
cause close to my heart, as my late
grandfather was a serving member of
the Porthcawl RNLI.

A woman’s wardrobe is her opportunity to stand
out and make a lasting first impression. The Closet
Boutique strives to make this happen for every girl
that walks through The Closet doors.

THE CLOSET

& HATS THE ONE

Hats The One was set up in 2015
from a long term love of headpieces
and all things glamourous. Wearing a
hat or fascinator not only completes
your outfit, it gives a look of
elegance.

This independent womens-wear store
located in Porthcawl stocks a wide
mix of clothing from day to night
wear to an outfit for a day at the races
or wedding. The boutique proudly
caters for all ages and styles to fit any
woman’s unique sense of style.
Owned by Joanna Hurn, the boutique
has rapidly grown since opening
its doors three and half years ago
and prides itself on hand picked
collections of current trends, a laidback atmosphere and a friendly, helpful
service to new and long standing
customers. In the early part of this year,
the shop underwent a refurbishment
to accommodate a first floor and
welcomed Joanna’s mother Christine
James of Hats The One Hat Hire &
Beauty. A mother and daughter team
offers clothing, hat hire and beauty all
under one roof.

The Closet has a strong social media
presence and updates customers
with daily posts of gorgeous new
arrivals. Find them on Instagram
@thecloset_porthcawl and on
Facebook @theclosetporthcawl
“I feel very proud to be part of the
working community of Porthcawl.
We all strive to make our hometown
the best place to live and work and
I can see the town is flourishing
with new businesses constantly
opening. With the way society is today,
I’m working towards keeping this town
a loveable place for my children and
all our future generations to love and
enjoy. Come in and say hi, you will find
us at 3 Well Street, Porthcawl CF36 3BE
01656 789381.”

36

A stylish angled tilt, a large statement
piece to give height or that small
delicate accessory...hats are definitely
back in fashion. Christine James, the
owner of Hats The One & Beauty prides
herself on her experienced and honest
professional advice and a bespoke
caring service to all.
Porthcawl’s leading hat hire studio has
recently been extended to showcase
the large range of hats and fascinators
available to hire. We recommend you
make an appointment to enable us to
give you our full undivided attention.
We look forward to welcoming you at
3a Well Street, Porthcawl.

Our
Our Festive
Festive Brochure’s
Brochure’s Out
Out Now
Now
Make your Christmas extra special at Harbour Bar & Kitchen. You’ll be greeted with all our usual reﬁnements Make your Christmas extrawith
special
at Harbour
Bar & Kitchen.
be greeted
added
festive sparkle
- done inYou’ll
our own
uniquewith
way. all our usual reﬁnements with added festive sparkle - done in our own unique way.
Bring everyone together and let us make this wonderful time of the year that extra bit
Bring everyone together
and let
make
time
of the year that extra bit
special
forus
you
all -this
in awonderful
way only we
can.
special for you all - in a way only we can.

Book A Table Today
Book A Table Today

To ﬁnd out more about what Harbour Bar & Kitchen has to offer this Christmas, visit
To ﬁnd out
more about what Harbour Bar & Kitchen
this Christmas,
visit
harbourbarandkitchen.co.uk/christmas
or has
call to
usoffer
on 01656
786175
harbourbarandkitchen.co.uk/christmas or call us on 01656 786175

it’s beginning to look
it’s
beginning
to look
a lot
like christmas
a lot like christmas

Festive
Festive Party
Party Menu
Menu

Available from 3rd December to 31st December
Excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Eve after 3pm.
Available from 3rd December to 31st December
Download the menu now atExcluding
harbourbarandkitchen.co.uk/christmas
*This
menuEve
is only
for pre-order bookings*
Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New
Year’s
afteravailable
3pm.
Download the menu now at harbourbarandkitchen.co.uk/christmas
menu is£30
only available for pre-order bookings*
2 Courses £25
3*This
Courses

Subway Porthcawl
The new owners at Subway porthcawl
were happy to support the RNLI
during the week of the sea festival
whereby they held raffles and
encouraged customers to donate to
this deserved cause.
We had a very successful day and hope
that porthcawl continues to support
the good work of the RNLI. Check out
Subway Porthcawl’s Facebook page for
lots of information on what this great
eatery offers plus details of special offers.
There’s no better time to each fresh!
Unit 2, The Brogen Building, John Street
Porthcawl CF36 3BA
01656 786452
www.subway.com/en-gb

38

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Providing a Professional Service by cruise experienced staff
39
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booking from start to finish!

Based in Cardiff with a team comprised of thirty-four specialists,
Bartholomew Hawkins is a Chartered Organisation and one of
the largest financial planning firms in the region managing well
in excess of £250 million of private investments.

This trusted company has been
providing independent financial and
discretionary investment planning to
clients across Wales and England
since 2005, Vale Life magazine finds
out more.
From the outset, Bartholomew Hawkins lay the
foundations for a meaningful partnership with
their clients, helping to figure out goals and
aspirations whilst offering suitable advice with
the aim of ensuring that clients’ investments will
work hard and gain the most possible growth.
Despite what most people think, making an
investment is not always a simple task.
The firm’s specialist advisors will help you get it
right first time, using its team based operation
to offer clients a unique experience, encouraging
meetings between the client and the specialist
managing their money, as well as accompanying
them when visiting accountants or solicitors.

Utilising the help of a professional advisor helps
remove the pressure of managing investments
and provides peace of mind. Focusing on clients
with over £100,000 of funds to invest,
the meetings between a client and one of the
many skilled Bartholomew Hawkins advisors can
take place in their offices or in the comfort of
the client’s home.
Every client is treated as an individual with the
advisor discovering their preferences around
investment risk, tailoring the meeting so that
they can discover the best possible investments
for you. Through detailed summaries and reports
all clients can rest easy as everything, including
charges, is laid out and easy to understand,
allowing the best possible financial plans to
take place.
Bartholomew Hawkins is a Chartered firm,
constantly going above and beyond to remain at
the forefront of the industry. Recently recognised
as ‘IFA Firm of the Year’, in addition to being
awarded the ‘Investors in People’ Award,

41

due to the culmination of lots of hard work,
quality advice, and a team that constantly
strive to deliver a first class service.
Along with many other businesses,
Bartholomew Hawkins is celebrating the crucial
work of the RNLI by being the main sponsor
of the RNLI Dinner this September 14th.
If you want to find out more about the RNLI,
as well as the many ways you could help raise
money for the organisation, simply visit
www.porthcawlfashionandfoodfestival.co.uk
for more information.

There are restaurants that survive and thrive because they adapt to the
changing times and because their reputation serves them well. The Beech
Tree, on Old Port Road near Culverhouse Cross is an excellent example.

THE BEECH TREE

Now under new management, new
owner Amir Baig’s philosophy is “if
it isn’t broke, don’t fix it” and he’s
absolutely right. Over a cup of very
good coffee, Vale Life learned about the
reason for its continued success and
Amir’s exciting, plans for its future.
Congratulations on the takeover
Thank you. I’m so excited to now own
the restaurant. It’s achieved such a good
reputation over the years (previous
diners might remember it as Gilby’s)
that when it became available, I jumped
at the chance of owning it. Our family
live in Wenvoe and we had been long
standing customers for many years, so it
was a no-brainer!

“We currently have six
chefs in the brigade.”

What’s your background?
I’ve worked in the catering industry
for a number of years having owned
restaurants before. My passion is not
only offering great food but offering
even better service. People buy from
people so employing the right staff in
any restaurant is crucial. Luckily, the
existing team are very accomplished and
have been retained. So, it’s a happy ship.
What changes have you made?
So far changes have been minimal as the
business worked perfectly fine the way
it was. However, we have put in a new
floor in the restaurant which gives it a
bit more of a modern, contemporary
feel. Guests are also welcome to enjoy
a drink in the bar which didn’t happen
previously and children are also
welcome. So, it’s a much more inclusive
environment.
42

How many are in your brigade?
We currently have six chefs in the
brigade.
What is the style of the cuisine?
We are a brasserie style restaurant.
Our fish and meat are on display for
customers to choose from.
Where do you source your produce?
We only serve the finest produce
and like to source locally wherever
possible. For instance, we buy our
meat from Barratts fine meats in
Rhoose and our fish from Ashton’s
Fishmongers. Our fish is delivered fresh
every morning.
Our fruit and veg comes from Arthur
David and Company and W R Bishop
and Company, both known for their
high-quality produce.

What about your wines?
We are very proud of our wine list and
source all of our wines from ND John in
Swansea.

“We only serve the finest produce and like to
source locally wherever possible.”

When are you open?
We are open for lunch and dinner –
As well as our a’la carte menu we also
offer a 2 course lunch menu for £15.95.
We also offer an early bird menu from
5.30pm-7pm.

What about Sunday lunch?
Ah yes. We are quite famous for our
Sunday lunches. Our roast sirloin
beef is £15.95 and depending on
whether lamb or pork are on the menu,
these are £14.95. We do recommend
booking though.

Calling all dog lovers. If you need help
with training your pooch, or a salon to
give them a spruce up, or a shop that
offers doggie clothes, then we have a few
businesses here who offer just that. Go on,
show your four-legged friend some love
and pay them a call.

PAWS FOR THOUGHT
K 9 K A B I N O F B A R RY

One-to-one grooming
for your pooch
Owner Jo Scott has opened a
brand-new grooming parlour in the
comfort of her own home.
Caringly built by Jo’s husband, every
aspect of hygiene has been considered
to create a salon in which they would
be happy to send their own precious
fur-babies; fresh, white and above all
consistently sparkling clean.
One client summed it up perfectly:
“A home from home.” “I’ll take that,”
says Jo. “The chill out areas are
proving popular. Your precious
pooches are secure, they can wander
outside on a nice day, or indoors they

have a choice, sit in an open cage, or
chill on the rug by the fire.”
Sounds like doggy bliss!
Call 07986 467696
thek9kabin@gmail.com
/The K9 Kabin

M OBILE DO G GRO O M IN G S ERV IC E

Ruff 2 Smooth Dog
Grooming
April is delighted to bring you this
new mobile dog grooming service
with a fully fitted van which has
everything needed for your best fury
friend to include a hydro-bath, drying,
clipping and styling.
Benefits to you and yours include:
n
Luxury

environment and brand-new
equipment
n
No more travelling to a grooming
salon and finding a parking space
n
One-to-one pampering
n
Stress free and comfortable
environment
n
Covering Cardiff and the Vale

April has been fully trained at a Pet
Industry Federation recommended
grooming school and is a member of the
British Dog Grooming Association.
April offers a money saving Loyalty
scheme for regular customers.
07377 734012
www.ruff2smooth.com
info@ruff2smooth.com
Ruff2Smooth Mobile Dog Grooming
44

CANINE S E RVI CE S

Blue Ridge Canine
Academy Limited
At Blue Ridge Canine Academy they
offer a plethora of canine services.
They will help and advise you on
how to select your new companion
be it a pedigree puppy or a rescue
pooch.
This award-winning company are dog
behaviour therapy specialists and offer
puppy, junior and adult dog training
classes, private bespoke 1-2-1 training,
agility training classes, certified canine
first aid courses and professional dog
walking services.
One of their popular services is their
Canine First Aid Practitioner course,
which prepares you to take decisive

and confident action in an emergency
as well as treating more common dog
related injuries. You will be trained
by a qualified professional instructor.
The qualification is fully certified, CPD
accredited and valid for three years.
For a friendly chat about any of your canine
requirements why not give us a call or visit
the website for more information.
01446 719 898 or 0771 500 8454
info@blueridgeacademy.co.uk
www.blueridgeacademy.co.uk

COWBRIDGE PET BOUTIQUE

Dirty Dog - The go-to
pet boutique!
Helen of Cowbridge wouldn’t take
her beloved lab cross Meg (age 13)
anywhere other than Dirty Dog.
“I live in Cowbridge so Dirty Dog is
so convenient for me.
I also like to support local independent
businesses. We’ve been coming here
since the day Paula opened it. We come
here for fur cutting/medicines/toys and
treats. There’s everything we need here
all under one roof. Paula also gives great
advice and I’m always confident leaving
her in Paula’s safe hands. Also, her
prices are very economical.”
“Meg won’t pass Dirty Dog without
stopping for a treat!”
DOGGIE ACCESSORIES EMPORIUM

Barking Mad
Barking Mad is a new shop on
Cowbridge High Street offering
everything you need for your dog –
all under one roof.
Owner Aimee Richardson has
hand-selected brands stocked in the
shop including Mutts & Hounds,
Hunter, Kong, Hugo & Hudson,
Ezy Dog, Barking Heads and
Forthglade. Aimme also offers the
pet preferred brand of ice-cream,
Frozzy’s.
Unique to the area, these products
are of the highest quality – yet very
affordable! Your dog will love them –
and you!

Barking Mad
85 Eastgate, Cowbridge
07949 143184
45

Penarth Fashion Week was born to raise money for the much-needed support
for the local RNLI, a charity that saves lives at sea every day. Last year the event
raised £11,500 and they would love to do the same this year.

PENARTH FASHION WEEK 2018
Local independent businesses
including boutiques, hair designers,
food establishments, make-up
artists, florists, Snowcat Cinema,
Leisure Centre and the local book
shop and members of Penarth RNLI
got together to launch the second
Penarth Fashion Week in aid of the
RNLI which this year runs from 6th
until 21st October.
The launch evening culminated with
the unveiling of a second RNLI dress
designed and made by Georgina-Grace
Smith and her mum Angie Smith and
worn by Mia Francis. This year we
were very lucky to have a second outfit
designed and made by Elissa Mancusso,
she designed a one-piece navy swim
suit with an RNLI puffa jacket worn
by both Lucy Flynn and Lauren King.
The launch event was hosted by Etc.
Penarth, a very glamourous venue for
a glamorous affair. This year there
are sixteen events during the fourteen
day period which started with a
Bollywood Boogie dinner and dance
at the Pier Pavilion with celebrity chef
Stephen Gomes.

“The launch evening
culminated with the unveiling
of a second RNLI dress.”

There’s an evening of Fashion and
Fizz at The Queen B with arrival
drinks served at Willmore’s 1938, and
Refresh Clinic will be holding an open
evening. Afternoon Tea will be served at
Holm House with a fashion show by
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group
and there will be a beauty workshop
held at Ener-chi Organics. Crepe
Escape will be holding an 80s theme
fashion party.
Snowcat Cinema will be showing
two films where a donation from
the ticket sale will be donated to the
RNLI. The films being shown will be
A Devil Wears Prada and Blow Up.
Amorio Beauty will have an evening
of hair and make-up demonstrations.
Griffin Books will be hosting story time
with Malachy Doyle who will be reading
Molly and the Stormy Sea. Willmore’s
1938 will be hosting a fish supper.
Coffee#1 will be hosting a coffee
tasting session.
You will be able to have a skin
analysis and mole check at Dawn
Clinic and both Blu Hair Design and
SOHO Hairdressing will be hosting
evenings of hair and beauty. Then, on
the final weekend, the Penarth RNLI
station will be transformed again by
46

the crew and staff of C3i and Events at
Room 11 on the Saturday to make
the station into a catwalk for the
Lifeboat Fashion Show supported by
The Queen B, Blu Hair Design and
Hair or Makeup with the after party at
Penarth Yacht Club. The transformed
station will then be used as a venue
for the James Sommerin Dinner on the
Sunday evening which will close the
eventful Fashion extravaganza.
Along with the individual events, Bar
44, Etc and Willmore’s 1938 will also
be giving donations to the RNLI during
Fashion Week based on sales of certain
food and drink and Coffee #1 are
selling gingerbread men in aid of the
RNLI until the end of October.
Penarth Lifeboat station is one of the
busiest in Wales, and the volunteer
crews attend between 60 to 70 shouts
on average each year. Calls can be
to broken down vessels, first aid
emergencies at sea, missing people
searches and to assist people cut
off by the tide - the Bristol Channel
having the second largest tidal range in
the world.
www.penarthfashionweek.co.uk
Images by www.angelinebranding.com

Come Holm
this Christmas
Enjoy the Christmas celebrations at
Holm House Hotel this year.

DINING AT HOLM
An afternoon with Head Chef Matt Owen
How long have you worked at Holm
House?
I joined Holm House at the beginning of
last year, so it will be coming up 2 years in
January.

Where did you train?
I trained with the St David’s hotel back in
2006, I started there as an apprentice and
worked my way up the knife rack from a
Breakfast Chef to Demi Chef de Partie. I then
worked for Raddison Blu Hotels. I opened
the Bristol Hotel as Chef de Partie and then
moved to their Birmingham Hotel for a
year gaining a vast experience in the Filini
restaurant, cooking all fresh Italian food.
I then joined the Crown restaurants. Firstly at
the Thistle gaining two Rosettes, then at the
Celtic Manor working at 3 Rosettes, cooking
to the very highest standards and learning
every step of the way. I later returned to St
David’s Hotel as a Senior Chef de Partie.

Why did you decide to become a
chef?
I became a chef simply because I have always
had a love of food and boy what an eyeopener.
Working in some very busy kitchens, catering
for weddings, functions and large corporate
events as well as à la carte restaurants and
cooking for some high profile names along
the way was totally inspiring to be a part of.
Over time I have focussed more on learning
the finer points of cooking, paying attention
to the detail and developing a greater
understanding of flavours. I always choose
to use quality produce and ingredients at
their best. Seasonality and texture are the
things I enjoy most about cooking. We’re all
learning every step of the way. Over time I
have focussed more on learning

the finer points of cooking, paying attention
to the detail and developing a greater
understanding of flavours. I always choose to
use quality produce and ingredients at their
best. Seasonality and texture are the things I
enjoy most about cooking. We’re all learning
every step of the way.

What does being awarded this
Rosette mean to you and the team at
Holm House?
It’s a great achievement to be awarded
a Rosette for culinary excellence. I have
pushed the team towards it for a long time
after getting a taste of what it takes to get
to these levels by working with the Crown
restaurants. The recognition has been great
for our chefs and has really inspired them to
keep on delivering.

What can we expect to see in the
future at Holm House?
Winning this Rosette is just the beginning
for us and is testament to the quality of our
restaurant. We are now working towards
getting a second Rosette next year and that
will put Holm House firmly on the map. Focus
is on the best locally sourced ingredients to
create some knockout dishes to put smiles
on our guest’s faces and keep them coming
back for more.

Choosing the perfect wedding venue must be high on the list for any bride
and groom. Having spent Valentine’s Day together at Holm House, Francesca
Schubert and fiancé Huw Tate knew they made the right choice when they
chose this stunning venue.

A PERFECT DAY

Vale Life chatted to Francesca about
their very special day.
Where did you meet?
A real 21st century romance, we both
swiped right!
How and where did Huw propose?
The proposal was perfect. We were
going to New York for my 30th Birthday.
On the morning of my birthday, we had
a helicopter flight over the city that my
parents had booked. We followed that
up with lunch at the top of One World
Trade Center. After that, Huw took me
to Central Park where there was a horse
and carriage waiting for us. We had a
lovely ride through Central Park and
then came to a stop at the Cherry Hill
Fountain.
We got out for some pictures and,
when I was busy posing and feeding
the horse, Huw got down on one knee
and asked me to marry him. I of course
said yes and then proceeded to ugly cry
while all of the people around cheered.
It was perfect, the boy did good!

Where did you choose to get married
and why?
Margam Abbey was a non-negotiable
for the ceremony as my parents had
always dreamed of me getting married
there and I knew how important it
was to them. On our first Valentine’s
Day together we went to Holm House
and after leaving, I told my mother
that’s the place I would love to get
married as we loved the food and
the service and could envisage our
wedding there. We looked at a number
of other venues but the flexibility and
willingness to work with our different
ideas was why we knew Holm House
was the right place.
What was the date of your wedding?
15th September 2018.
Where did you get your dress?
My dress was designed by Jesus Peiro.
I chose that designer as you were able
to customise the design to suit your
specific wishes. I loved the quality of
the fabric and the simple yet modern
styling.
50

Where did you get the groom’s suit?
The groom’s suit was hired from Dyfed
Menswear on Whitchurch Road. We
wanted a slightly more formal cut than
a normal suit but not tails so when we
saw this suit we knew it was perfect.
Did you have stag and hen do’s? If
so, tell us about those.
I had a few hen parties. My main
hen was in Las Vegas which was just
amazing. There was a group of 12 of us.
I absolutely love Vegas and had to go
for my Hen and was just grateful that
my friends and family were willing to
come with me!

“I loved the quality of the
fabric and the simple yet
modern styling.”
I then also had a spa day with my
bridesmaids and both mothers, a trip
arranged by friends to Essex and then a
boozy brunch in Cardiff. I am well and
truly henned out!

Huw’s stag was in Portugal. He is
a golfer so that was always going to
be part of the trip. There was a group
of 16, a mix of golfers and non-golfers.
They all had a wonderful time from
what I’ve heard and in true stag
tradition, Huw shouldn’t have bothered
packing clothes as there were plenty
of outfits arranged for him by the
Best Man!
Did you work with a wedding
planner? If so, please tell us more.
We didn’t work with a Wedding
Planner. The staff of Holm House
were wonderful and Dan the manager
made sure the day went smoothly.
We were so lucky to have some brilliant
suppliers working with us especially
Lisa from Lumi Event Design and
Catherine Gray Flowers as they stayed
on top of everything and made sure
the day was set up and looking perfect
for us.
Sessy from Paper Date excelled herself
with all of the stationary from the Save
the Dates, Invites, on the day stationary

to the cards and gifts she helped us
arrange for each other.
How did the wedding ceremony go?
The ceremony was brilliant, once I
arrived! I was about 40 minutes late for
the ceremony and Huw stood at the top
of the aisle waiting for the whole time.
The ceremony itself went beautifully.
The string quartet really added to the
atmosphere.
We had a bit of a drama before the
wedding as we found out on the
Thursday that we didn’t have a choir.
Thanks to the power of Facebook,
Maesteg Male Voice choir saved the day.
We then went to Holm House for our
reception. The team at Holm House
were wonderful, the food was perfect
and people haven’t stopped telling
us how impressed they were with the
running of the day. The String Quartet
Company came along and played
through the wedding breakfast too and
that made the ambience just perfect and
we couldn’t be more grateful to them.
51

Did you have a theme?
We chose navy, pink and gold as the
colour scheme. I am a huge Kate
Spade fan and really wanted to bring
some of the signature Kate Spade
design elements into the wedding.
Luckily, Lisa at Lumi and Sessy at Paper
Date were Kate Spade fans too, so they
understood just what we wanted.
Were there any stand out moments
on the day?
Walking into Holm House after the
ceremony and seeing all of the decor
and especially the marquee. It was just
outstanding and quite emotional to see
the vision come to life and all of the
months of work come together.
Any funny moments in the speeches?
During the Father of the Bride speech
our little nephew was sat with my
mother and when people were being
thanked he kept saying ‘and Aiden too!’
that definitely got a few laughs from
people!

What were the best parts of the day/
evening for you?
The best part of the ceremony for me
was definitely walking into the church
and seeing Huw at the top of the aisle
waiting for me. Huw’s best moment was
finally being able to turn around and
see me when I arrived! The best part
of the reception was seeing everyone
enjoying themselves and their food. It
was good to have the formalities done
with and able to let our hair down a bit
and have a dance to the band Festival
Heart in the evening!
If you could change anything about
your day, what would it be?
I wouldn’t be late! It made everything
a bit rushed going from the day into
evening celebrations. It was a pretty
perfect day overall though.
Did you go on honeymoon, if so
where did you go?
We had a party the day after the
wedding in my parents house followed
by a two night minimoon in The Corran
resort, arranged by my Aunty and Uncle.

It was lovely to just chill and look
back at pictures from the day and take
everything in.
Our main honeymoon isn’t until
two weeks after the wedding.
We are flying to Hawaii, joining a
cruise and cruising around Tahiti,
Bora Bora, Moorea, NZ and finally fly
back from Sydney. There were a few
destinations we wanted to visit so doing
it this way means we get to sample
them all! We cannot wait for three
weeks of relaxation after planning this
wedding!
How has married life changed
you both?
Not massively so far. I have a different
name which will take some getting used
to but at least I have the same surname
as our dog now haha!
What do you have planned in your
future together?
Hopefully starting a family as we are
both keen to have children. Getting our
house looking as we want, we moved
52

in about 18 months ago and there are
still bits and bobs we want to get done
there! Continuing to work hard so we
can fund more holidays too!
Images courtesy of
aerialphotographywales.com
www.dave-powell.com

Local Cardiff school,
Westbourne in Penarth,
has once again topped
UK-wide league tables
for the fourth year
in a row. The Daily
Telegraph confirmed
Westbourne’s 1st place
ranking in its recent
Sixth Form league
tables.

WESTBOURNE SCHOOL
RANKS 1ST IN THE UK

The ranking firmly establishes
Westbourne as one of the most
successful and academically excellent
schools in the UK.
In GCSE results where Westbourne
achieved 56% grades 9-7 (previously
A*-A). This included fully 1-in-5 of all
grades, the new, harder, grade 9 and a
further 1-in-5 grade 8s. This is 2.5 to 5
times the UK average.
Westbourne’s 1st-place Sixth Form
ranking and GCSE results follow hotly
on the heels of their inspection in spring
where Welsh schools’ inspectorate,
Estyn, rated Westbourne as ‘Excellent’
– the highest possible grade – in all five
inspection categories.
categories. Westbourne is an ‘allthrough’ school for children from 2 to
18 years old. It has a long tradition of
academic excellence and frequently
achieves the best results in the Cardiff
and the Vale of Glamorgan, far exceeding
UK, Welsh and local averages, and with
90% of graduates gaining places at the
prestigious Russell Group universities.
Notwithstanding such excellent results,
Westbourne remains non-selective. They
achieve these results through small class
sizes, unparalleled one-to-one academic
support from their highly qualified and
committed teachers, and outstanding
pastoral care.

GCSE GRADE
9
8
9-7

UK AVERAGE
4%
9%
21%

WESTBOURNE
20%
20%
56%

“Westbourne Nursery is
now accepting pupils from
two years old so that they
can begin their educational
journey at Westbourne
even earlier.”
Principal, Dr Gerard Griffiths said
“We are delighted to once again be
ranked 1st in the UK. It is a testament
to the focus and diligence of our
students and the untiring hard work
of our teachers and the entire
Westbourne team.
To have our position at the top of
the league tables confirmed for the
fourth year in a row and so soon
after our ‘Excellent’-across-the- board
inspection rating is great praise indeed.
Everyone at Westbourne looks forward
to building further on this success and
continuing to go from strength
to strength.”
53

We would like to thank the entire
Penarth, Vale and Cardiff community
for their support throughout such a
fantastic year and we look forward to
sharing ever-greater success.”

It’s been a year since Jess Carmell opened her
gorgeous Blow Dry and Beauty Bar in Penarth
and the number is on speed dial for women
wanting to look and feel their best. Which salon
are we talking about?

A MORIO
BLOW DRY & BEAUTY BAR
“We are small team, but have already
doubled our staff in a year making
four in total. We make each customer
to feel a part of our little family.
Clients cannot wait to come back for
a pamper!
We only use the best high-end brands
which include Gel Bottle, SiennaX,
Moroccon Oil, Nouveau Lash etc. We
are all highly trained in the treatments
that we offer and make sure that each
and every aspect of a client’s visit to us
has the WOW factor! The salon is very
relaxed and friendly. We all love coming
into work each day and this is something
that our clients pick up on.” Says Jess.

“Always look forward to my visit
here. I’ve been having my eyelashes
done by Jess for a while now and
feel like I’m visiting a friend’s house
rather than a salon. Coffee is always
amazing and the girls are incredible.
Highly recommend having any
treatment done. I have been to other
places but always come back here even
though it’s on the other side of Cardiff
to me. I’ve never been disappointed
and wouldn’t go anywhere else, well
worth the trip”.
TARYN KAVANAGH 5*

Penarth businesswoman Dr Sarah Cuffin is celebrating 15 years
since opening the doors of Smile Studio Penarth this October
Many of our dental patients were telling us they’d like to try
facial aesthetics, anti-ageing and skin treatments.

So in 2007 Sarah took the decision to train in Facial Aesthetics,
building up her knowledge and expertise, she went on to open
Refresh Skin Clinic, offering non-surgical facial aesthetic
treatments (Botox ®, Dermal Fillers and PDO Facial Thread
Lifts) and the latest in Skin rejuvenation therapies (Fusion SLR
and Regenlite) aimed at enhancing patients’ natural beauty as
well as treating scarring and skin problems.

Dr Cuffin recognising that this is not something people want
to take a chance with, it occurred to
her that with all her medical and dental training
it was a natural step to expand into this area.

Please join us on Tuesday 9th October at 5.45pm
You could even be chosen to have Fusion SLR treatment on the night…
Entry is by ticket only and includes Fizz, canapés, free hand massage a ‘goodie bag’ and live demonstrations
(Fusion SLR & Botox) by Dr Sarah Cuffin | Cost £10.00 with all proceeds going to RNLI Penarth

Penarth is getting well-deserved recognition for its restaurants, drawing in
visitors from near and far. A new restaurant that’s getting everyone talking
is Keyif in Glebe Street.
If you like Turkish cuisine, then
you’ll love what Keyif has to offer.
Owned by a true Turk, Mehmet and
his team offer authentic dishes, full
of flavour in convivial surroundings.
We’ve all heard of hummus, shish and
Kleftico and yes, these are available, as
well as stuffed vine leaves, Musakka and
the Keyif mixed grill. All of these dishes
are of generous portions and are served
by well trained, friendly staff. Children
are catered for, as well as vegetarians
and vegans. The prices are very
reasonably as well so you’ll be able to
splash out on a good bottle of wine and
a delicious dessert of Baklava or Kunefe
(firm Turkish favourites).

“Our group of four enjoyed a delicious
meal on the evening of Sat 14th. Varied
menu catered for all our diverse tastes
and our order was served promptly by
the polite and attentive staff. The place
was packed so a good atmosphere too.
Our first visit but certainly won’t be our
last! Thanks, Keyif for a lovely evening.”
JACKIE VINING 5*

56

Keyif
21 Glebe Street, Penarth CF64 1EE
029 2070 2429
www.keyif.co.uk

SEABREEZE HOMES
Seabreeze Homes’ reputation speaks for itself. With a 5-star rating on many
review sites, the team put great service at the heart of the company’s ethos.

Here is what one delighted reviewer
said recently.
“A lovely and friendly estate agent, who
was very helpful and calm when dealing
with all manner of difficult situations.
They shielded us from the unnecessary
pressures given by our purchasers,
making the process of selling our
house much better than it could have
been given the circumstances. Always
keeping us up-to-date with the day to
day happenings which we thoroughly
appreciated. It’s been nice to deal with

a small but knowledgeable company,
who gave a more personal service rather
than use one of the bigger companies
who don’t get to know you or your
house. Would use again without
question.”

Seabreeze Homes were also awarded best independent
Estate Agent in south Wales 2018 by the UK Enterprise
Awards which is an accolade they are justifiably proud of.
57

S H O E R E PA I R E R S , DA N C E W E A R
AND GIFTS

Frangoulis
A family businesses with thirty years’
experience in the shoe repair industry.
Offering a wide and diverse range of
services from shoe repairs, key cutting,
engraving trophies, award shields,
tankards, Zippo lighters, dancewear,
gymnastic wear, masks and stage
accessories and leather wallets and
purses.
Suppliers of many local dance and
theatre schools with a variety of
dancewear needs.

“Offering a wide and
diverse range of services.”

Frangoulis
2 Windsor Arcade
Penarth
CF64 1JA
029 2070 0233

FRIENDLY AN D W ELC O M IN G CA F É
I N TH E H EAR T O F PEN A R T H

Wilmore’s 1938
Willmore’s are proud to be a part
of Penarth Fashion Week 2018 and
are involved in three events this
year including a joint event with
The Queen B on Monday 8th, A Fish
Supper on Sunday 14th and another
joint event with Blu Hair Design
Ticket prices are £15 (available from
The Queen B), £20 (available from
Willmore’s) and £15 (available from
Blu Hair Design).
4 Washington Buildings
Stanwell Road
Penarth CF64 2AD
029 2070 9600

“Proud to be a part of
Penarth Fashion
Week 2018.”

PENA R TH’ S AVEDA H A IR SA LO N

SOHO Hair Dressing
Based in a gorgeous turn-ofthe-century townhouse, SOHO
Hairdressing is the perfect setting
for all aspects of hairdressing.
Come and enjoy their Aveda Hair and
Beauty Event on the 19th October from
5.30pm-8.30pm. Included in your £5
ticket will be an Aveda gift, nibbles and
a drink, a hand massage, make-up artist
and hair advice. Tickets are available
from the salon.
2 Herbert Terrace
Penarth
CF64 2AH
029 2070 0917
www.sohohairdressing.com

BLU H AIR DESIGN
Racoon Luxe Wefts offer a more
temporary hair extension option.
Available in a full range of colours
our Luxe Weft system sees a fine
section of premium quality human
hair, root point correct and cuticle
intact, pre-attached to a superfine,
ultra-flexible micro header.

This is individually ‘sandwiched and
sealed’ in-between clients’ own hair
sections. As easy to apply as they are to
be styled and cared for, Luxe Wefts are
virtually undetectable and extremely
comfortable. They can be worn for up
to four weeks before being removed,
re-conditioned, re-taped and re-applied.
They are so discreet, hair can be worn
down and loose or dressed up and
styled. It only takes 45 minutes to apply
a full head – hence it being called a
lunchtime makeover – making Luxe
Wefts the ideal choice for those clients
requesting a more temporary measure
for special occasions, parties, proms
and weddings.
Icons of the hair industry love to
use Racoon Luxe Wefts for their
photographic, television, stage and
fashion work.

In addition to the fast and easy to apply
method they are a ‘must have’ inclusion
to their kit bags for any creative work
because of the quality and versatility
our Luxe Wefts offer.
Two of our stylists have completed the
comprehensive Luxe-weft course.
Leanne one of Blu’s senior stylists said,
“I have used pre-bonded extensions in
the past but found the Luxe-weft were
superior and kinder to the hair. The
hair can last up to one year if taken
care of with the aftercare package.
The application will take approximately
one hour.”

T H U R S DAY 1 8 T H O C T O B E R

Product Demonstration
Please join Blu and the team on
Thursday 18th October from 7pm-9pm
for a fun social evening with a talk
on Racoon Luxe-Weft extensions and
a demonstration, a talk on Nioxin (a
product for fuller, thicker hair). Tickets
are £15 (available from Blu) which
includes a drink on arrival and £10 off
your next service at Blu, a raffle and a
goodie bag. There’s also an after party
at Willmore’s 1938.

Leanne is Blu’s wedding hair specialist
and was very excited that the Luxeweft can give the bride extra length
and instant fullness to look even more
special on their big day.
Brooke, Blu’s newly qualified stylist said
she enjoyed every second of the course
and was very excited to have the extra
qualification. Brooke, even though new
to the shop floor, is proving to be a very
competent and confident stylist, whose
column is filling very quickly.

There’s really no better way of promoting a business or service than by
word-of-mouth. Jayne Davies, 67 of Saron, Ammanford is more than happy to
recommend Natural Therapist Angharad Evans of Penarth, after she helped her
with her eczema which had plagued her since the age of three months old.

A NGHAR AD E VANS

Why did you see the services of a
Natural Therapist?
I was looking for a Natural Therapist
because conventional medicine was not
working for me.
How did you hear about Angharad?
Two people that I know well
recommended Angharad and, when
I realized that I knew her, I got in
contact. It was important to me that
I knew of her and that she had been
recommended but I had no idea how
her therapy worked at that stage.
I was desperate by now and as I had
known Angharad since she was a child
and knew her background I felt I had
nothing to lose.
What was the problem you were
seeking help for?
My issue is eczema, which first showed
its symptoms when I was three months
old. I believe I will always have it but
hopefully now I will be able to keep
it under control. During my lifetime
it has appeared on most parts of my
body from time to time but over the last
three years it has come out all over my
face, neck, chest and hands and it didn’t
matter how often I used the steroid
cream and moisturizer given to me by
my GP, it never cleared.

How many sessions did you have
with Angharad?
I have had eight sessions between
February and July of this year and
I feel that my problem has been
resolved, but I am not so naive as to
think that it will not come back if I
don’t keep to the diet and not go back
to see her around three or four times a
year for check-ups.
How has this issue affected your life?
My skin was sore and itchy It kept
me awake at night. I was agitated
and uncomfortable. At times I got
quite depressed and irritable. I was
embarrassed by my looks.
How are you now after working with
Angharad?
I am back to myself again. The skin on
my face is clear, which is very important
to me, and there is no eczema on my
body at all for the first time in years. I
am realistic enough to realize that this
might not always be the case but at least
now there is something I can do if I get
a flare up.

I have also benefited in other ways from
the treatment. I sleep better. I don’t
have hot flushes anymore and I have
more energy, plus I have lost weight
and I don’t have food cravings.
63

Was the treatment worth the money?
The treatment isn’t cheap but it has
worked and so I feel it has been well
worth the money.
Did you enjoy working with
Angharad?
Very much so. She has taken time to
explain to me how the treatment works
and, although it is not a conventional
treatment, I completely understand
how it works now. I have had to work
hard with Angharad and the first few
weeks were difficult because I had to
change the way that I eat. I had to cut
a lot of foods from my diet, but the
funny thing is. I don’t miss them at all.
I am more than happy to recommend
Angharad and her naturopathy to others
and have already done so.

Angeline Mansfield’s love of photography started as a little girl and became
a vocation later in life when the need to create imagery for her children’s
clothing business turned a childhood passion into a full-time career.

E VERY PICTURE

City Life Cardiff chatted to Angeline
to find out more about her passion
for photography.

How long have you been interested
in photography?
I’ve always loved taking photos! I still
remember the feeling of excitement
at getting my film developed from the
pharmacy when I was a child. I used to
take photos of my brother wearing all
sorts of bizarre outfits and then I’d cut
him out and stick him in a pencil pot
or in a plant and photograph him again
(he’s forgiven me now!).
Over the years I guess I forgot about
how much I’d loved it, until only a
couple of years ago when my boyfriend
bought me a camera for Christmas.
At the time I’d set up an online business
selling children’s clothing, so I used
the camera to photograph children
wearing the clothing and posted the
images on social media. I began getting
requests for photoshoots and all of a
sudden photography was part of my
everyday life.

What do you enjoy most about
your work?
I’ve always had a strong urge to use
my work to help people and improve
their lives in some way. Very early on I
began to receive feedback from adults
I’d photographed telling me that after
their shoot they’d had the confidence
to go on and pursue dreams they were
previously too fearful of, and this is the
reason I absolutely love my work!

I feel really blessed to have the ability to
make people feel comfortable in their
own skin and I love it when my clients’
eyes light up when they look at images
of themselves that they love. I really
enjoy showing people the things about
themselves that they really appreciate
and hearing what makes people
happy. We always find that when the
conversation to turns to things we love
then creativity flows, and magic seems
to happen.

“I’ve always loved
taking photos!”
64

What type of photographs do you
enjoy taking?
I love it when my clients have an idea
they’d like to go with and get excited
about being creative with it. I am
open to anything and often tell clients
that if an image of them naked on a
sky scraper in Kuala Lumper is what
they desire then that can be arranged!
I enjoy taking branding photos for
coaches and businesses who are using
their work to help people in some way
too. It feels good to me because the
images can bring them a much wider
audience online, so they can help even
more people, and I also feel inspired by
the work they do.

I’m passionate about photographing
women to improve their body
confidence as well and, have been
running ‘You are beautiful’ photoshoots
in the Wedding Suite at Bryngarw
House. These are boudoir style
photoshoots and it is so much fun
creating images that make people feel,
amazing, sexy, beautiful or however it is
they want to feel.

TELLS A STORY

What do you think makes your work
stand out above others?
I think everyone’s work stands out
in its own unique way. I love looking
at photos and really appreciate the
work of other photographers. There
are so many different styles, ideas and
possibilities! All the clients I’ve worked
with have been because they’ve seen
images I’ve taken and feel that they are
their ‘style’ and resonate with my work.

What type of clients do you
work for?
This really varies depending on what
people are looking for. I have recently
worked with an architect creating
images for his website and advertising.
I have worked with entrepreneurs who
want to create themselves a passive
income and need branding images in
order to build a relationship with their
online audience.

“I love it when my clients have an idea they’d
like to go with and get excited about being
creative with it.”
I am currently working with people
who have recovered from illness, who
have undergone a mastectomy or
have a stoma bag, to make them feel
beautiful and celebrate their life and
well-being. Sometimes clients just book
a photoshoot because they’re inspired
to do it for fun… and it really is fun.
I feel very lucky to be able to do this
every day.
65

Neil Munn, an accomplished former professional boxer and Head Coach
and trainer at Penarth Amateur Boxing Club has launched an elite range of
boxing and training products.

POWER HOUSE

City Life popped into the Station
Road gym to find out more.
How’s life Neil? You’ve expanded
your product line since we last met…
It’s all good. I had developed the basic
range to ensure that my youth boxers
had a good product to work with.
There’s so much over-priced rubbish out
there and I wanted to make sure that we
were using really good gear.
Are your products available to other
boxers, trainers and gyms?
We have a secure website and all the
products are available there.

“ This elite range will take
the punishment that pro
boxers will throw at it.”

Why have you developed the new
elite range?
I wanted to step it up a bit. Obviously
this range costs more but the quality is
excellent and superior to anything else
we’ve produced. Developing the previous
range gave me huge feedback so I’ve
put a lot of effort into ensuring this elite
range will take the punishment that pro
boxers and trainers will throw at it.

What are your plans for the
next year?
I love training with my personal clients.
I’ll be working hard with the young
boxers - we have some really promising
ones, and I’ll be trying to get the
NMPower brand out there. I think I
have the best job in the world but, you
know what we say, no pain - no gain!

Have you had any feedback so far?
Yes, it’s been brilliant. Customers
like the attention to detail. They also
appreciate that I listen to their feedback
so they feel they have contributed to
making a great product even better.

For more information and to view the
latest NMPower products, visit the
website or call Neil on 07773 550401.

66

www.NMPowerUK.com

Millions of people across the world go to a weekly
meeting where they stand on a scale in front of
strangers to see if they have been successful in losing
a few pounds that week. Perhaps you have too!

WEIGHT WATCHERS OR
WEALTH WATCHERS?

They are given advice about
strategies that will help them to
succeed - inspiring recipe ideas,
exercise plans etc. So, it seems we
are content to share our weight
issues with the world, but do we
speak about our money in the same
way?

So back to weight watchers - if there
was a “wealth weigh in” each week
where people come along to have their
wealth assessed, were given strategies
for improving their situation, where
progress was depicted in simple charts
and where they felt in better control, would this be a good thing?

Gretchen Betts of Magenta
weighs in…
NO, WE DO NOT! We are more likely
to talk about a whole range of personal
issues - our weight, our sex life, our
mental health, BEFORE we share
information about our money.

We think it would! Better still, if we
shared a discussion which was about
you and the future life you want to live,
where you are free to talk about your
money and all your concerns, where
we can offer support, leadership and
guidance - we think this would be a
great thing!

But why do we feel so uncomfortable
about our money? Perhaps we are too
embarrassed - we think that we will be
judged as feckless for having too little,
or a show off for having too much.

This is what we do at Magenta.
Not every week, but at least once every
year, to help you formulate your plans
for the future and stay on track to
achieve them.
67
67

Don’t be shy or embarrassed (we
never judge) - give us a call to arrange
a friendly chat and start your wealth
watching journey.

Every restaurant can owe its good reputation to the head chef. That
certainly can be said of John Quill, Executive Head Chef at The Raglans
Restaurant and Burgess Bar at The Copthorne Hotel in Culverhouse Cross.

COPTHORNE HOTEL

Vale Life caught up with John,
46, to find out about his role at
the restaurant and his passion for
the job.
What is your career history?
I trained to be a chef in 1992 in
Surrey and then went on to work for
large corporate companies at senior
management level including Compass
and Diageo. Unfortunately, in 2006
my youngest daughter was found to
have cancer and, during her treatment,
I gave up my senior management
role to become an agency chef so
that I could work around her
treatment.
Now back in chef whites, I worked the
agency chef circuit gaining a name for
myself and a good reputation working
at some of south Wales highest profile
locations. In 2008 I started my own
Private Chef and Consultancy business
catering for business and private clients
across south Wales, Birmingham,
London and Essex including TV
Personalities, professional sportsmen
and women.

In 2017 I was approached to become
the Consultant Chef at The Vale Resort
and consequently assisted in increasing
their food hygiene ratings across the
resort, implementation of new menus,
systems and improvements to the overall
operational standards delivered. In May
2018 I took over as The Executive Head
Chef here at The Copthorne in Cardiff. I
am a member of The Culinary Association
of Wales, an Associate Member of The
British Culinary Federation, was National
Chef of Wales Semi Finalist in 2012, 2014
and 2016 and was a National Chef of
Wales Finalist in this year’s competition.

I spent 12 months living in Australia
and travelled to Hong King and UAE
where I was able to learn even more
about different styles of cooking. Due
to some of the requirements of my
professional sports clients, I have had
to learn and become fully proficient in
the planning and preparation of the
Paleo Diet. I love Fusion style cooking
and mixing flavours from all over the
world along with traditional European
and British Cuisine.

How long have you worked at The
Copthorne?
I took over at The Copthorne three
months ago.

What is the style of cooking at Raglans?
British, European and Fusion.

What skills are you bringing to
the kitchen?
I’ve been blessed to have grown up in
a multicultural community where I was
able to learn about the flavours and
preparation of Caribbean, Asian, Chinese,
Indian, Portuguese and European
Cuisine.

“We have stunning lake views and a friendly
atmosphere which is enjoyed by many.”
68

How many are in your brigade?
There are eight members of my brigade.

Have you made any changes to
the menu?
I have made some changes to the current
menu, including a Brunch Menu which
will include several favourites including
Smashed Avocado and Smoked Salmon
on Bloomer bread and our very own
Croque Monsieur. There are Sharing
Platters including Vegan Tapas and our
Spicy Nachos. Our grill section will now
be offering an 8oz Rump Steak and King
Prawn Surf ‘n Turf and there is also the
option to enjoy The Copthorne Mixed
Grill for those with a larger appetite.

Our main courses now include a
Seafood Linguine, an Asparagus and
Perl Las Risotto and customers have
the option to add fresh chicken or
king prawns to our Spicy Singapore
Vegetable Noodles. There will be
a weekly specials menu which will
include seasonal specials such as Welsh
Lamb and Wild Boar.
Where do you source your
produce? Why does locally grown,
seasonal, fresh produce mean so
much to you?
The use of the freshest possible
ingredients means everything to me
as it means that we can deliver the
best possible food on every plate. I
consciously support the use of local
Welsh and British Produce with our
menus in support of local businesses
and farmers across the country.
I understand that there will be
changes to the way in which the
restaurant looks. Please tell us more.
The Raglans Restaurant and The Burges
Bar & Lounge are both scheduled a
complete refurbishment later this year
or early 2019, which I am excited about.
We will be relaunching the restaurant
with an amazing new menu following
the refurbishment.

Is the restaurant open to nonresidents?
The restaurant is very much open to
non-residents and I would like to invite
everyone to come and sample the food
and atmosphere here at The Copthorne
Hotel, Raglans Restaurant and The
Burges Bar & Lounge. We are situated
in a prime location, on main routes in
and out of Cardiff, we have parking for
over 200 vehicles and we have our very
own lake.

Would you say you were
competitively priced?
Absolutely, we offer great food, great
service and value for money.

Vale Life readers
quoting ‘VLC1’ will
receive a 25% discount on
restaurant bookings until
30th November 2018

What about Christmas and New Year?
We will be serving our Festive Afternoon
Tea throughout December between
1200noon and 4pm each day and have
Winter Wonderland Party Nights and
Cabaret Christmas Lunches also available
throughout the month of December. We
are taking bookings for Christmas Day
Lunch and will be seeing in the New Year
in style with our New Year’s Eve Gala
Dinner Menu.
69

What do you think makes dining at
Raglans, Copthorne special?
We have a great new menu, our front-ofhouse deliver service which is second to
none, we have stunning lake views and
a friendly atmosphere which is enjoyed
by many.

It will hiss and spit – keep it moving
so it doesn’t catch or burn. After a few
minutes, add 50ml water, half the butter,
a tablespoon of white wine vinegar or
lemon juice and a good pinch of salt.
Give it a final stir, cover with a lid and
turn the heat to medium. Keep checking
every 5 minutes adding a dash more
water if it looks like catching. Cook until
the edges are soft but the middle retains
its bite – about 20 minutes. Remove the
lid for the last 5 minutes to evaporate off
any excess liquid, then season to taste.
Use the back of a wooden spoon to
smash the celeriac – as much or as little
as you like.
Meanwhile, melt the remaining butter
in a frying pan with the remaining
tablespoon of oil and fry the onion on
a medium heat until starting to soften,
about 10 minutes. Add the sliced
mushrooms and cook until they start to
release their moisture. Pour in the wine,
add the chopped garlic and let the liquid
bubble and reduce until you have a dark,
sticky mess. Season with salt and pepper.
While the mushrooms cook, blanch the
kale in salted water in two batches for
1½ minutes each. Remove with a slotted
spoon and plunge straight into ice cold
water to stop the cooking and fix the
colour.
70

When cool, squeeze out the water
and roughly chop. Combine all the
component parts in a large bowl. Pour
in the cream, grate in the nutmeg, mix
gently and check the seasoning. Pack the
mixture snugly into a shallow pie dish.
Cut out the pastry to the size of the rim
of your dish and place it over the top of
the filling, tucking it around the sides.
Brush with the egg and slash a couple of
holes in it for the steam to escape. Bake
for 20–25 minutes, until the pastry is
golden and the filling is bubbling around
the edges.
VA R I AT I O N S
n Make it festive by adding a handful
of chopped pre-cooked chestnuts.
n Add diced and fried streaky bacon.

By the end of 2020, Riverford Organic Farmers aims to use certified home
compostable materials for all its punnets and bags. Vale Life talks to Liam &
Adriana to find out what the future holds for plastic packaging at Riverford.

THE PLASTIC PROBLEM

After many months of intensive
research, we’ve decided on the
sustainable future of our plastic
packaging: home compostable
plastic. Whether on your compost
heap at home, by sending it back to
us at the farm, or through your food
waste bin, these plastics don’t take
long to break down completely even at low temperatures.

In 2017-18, we’ve removed 180km of
plastic nets in favour of compostable
beech nets, unwrapped several popular
veg, and overall saved 1.5 tonnes of
plastic per year!

Our research suggests that our veg
boxes already use less than a quarter of
the packaging of a major supermarket.
We think we can reduce this further
to nearer a tenth in the winter, when
produce is typically less perishable.

Our solution: home compostable
plastics
You may have heard bad things about
‘biodegradable’ or ‘compostable’
plastics. There are many different types
on the market, and some are worse for
the environment than conventional
plastic. As well as being non-recyclable,
they require high temperatures break
down, meaning they don’t biodegrade if
they end up in landfill or in the ocean.

The problem with plastic
Cheap, strong, flexible, with a lower
carbon footprint than paper and infinite
uses… In many ways, plastics are
brilliant. It’s no wonder that the world
has become increasingly reliant on
them.
Unfortunately, carbon footprint isn’t
the only environmental issue to be
considered: staggering amounts of
plastic are ending up in our oceans,
endangering marine life.
We’ve continued our dedication to
using the minimum plastic possible.

However, we can’t do without plastic
completely. Without it, certain leafy veg
would dehydrate before reaching your
door, resulting in massive food waste.

Home compostable plastic is different.
It’s made from renewable raw materials,
and breaks down at low temperatures.
Many are even certified to completely
break down in marine environments,
so they won’t cause harm if they do
mistakenly end up in the ocean.
An impressive 82.5% of our customers
compost their food or garden waste
71

(based on a survey of 10,240 current
Riverford customers - July 2018).
This, combined with our well-honed
system of collecting packaging to bring
back to the farm for reuse, composting
or recycling, convinced us that home
compostable plastics were the right
solution for us. Although not a perfect
solution, we are working hard to
achieve the biggest improvement we
can and we hope to encourage our
customers and other organisations to
work towards similar improvement.
Find out more by contacting Liam &
Adriana.

“We’ve continued our
dedication to using the
minimum plastic possible.”
Place your order online at
www.riverford.co.uk
liamandadriana@riverfordhomedelivery.co.uk
riverfordglamorganandswansea
@veglifewales
@veglifewales

Martin Briggs enjoyed a successful career as a
financial advisor until his retirement 3 years
ago. That work/life transition has allowed Martin
to indulge in two of his passions - music and
painting. City Life caught up with Martin at his
Pontcanna studio.

ARTIFEX FLAGRANTI

We enter Martin’s studio and I’m
immediately envious. It’s spacious,
light and has a very cool and lived-in
artist vibe.
I could easily live there - it’s everything
a want-to-be artist like me yearns for.
The next thing that strikes me is the
body of work; every available surface
is covered with doodles, sketches, halffinished canvasses and rows of finished
artworks that give you a glimpse of just
how busy he’s been.
I like Martin’s work. I’ve had a painting
of his hanging over my stairs for the
best part of fifteen years. He is, and
always has been, a talented artist. I’ve
watched his confidence grow over the
years. They say you shouldn’t invest
in art but buy it because you like it.
That’s always been my philosophy but
I can’t help thinking one day, Martin
could become very collectable indeed. I
believe he’s certainly “one to watch”.
72

His recent show at Cardiff MADE
was a good example of not only how
enthusiastic he is about his painting
but also how professional he is.
Martin understands the importance
of marketing - he’s confident talking
about his work and he “gets” art,
being a collector of other artists’ work.
He’s a gallery owners dream and a
fine addition to what appears to be
an emerging Cardiff, if not Welsh, art
scene.
He has quickly established himself
among the Kings Road Artists and he is
an active member of Printhaus. He has
had work in group and solo shows most
months over the last three years and has
built a core following of collectors who
have bought multiple pieces.
He says that his paintings and prints are
still exploratory and developmental, but
with two major solo shows this autumn
it is clear that he is working with

confidence and a strong, identifiable
sense of style is emerging.
To research one of the larger
paintings (Quercus Lapsus), Martin
booked into the Gliffaes Country House
Hotel just outside Crickhowell on the
banks of the Usk.
“The hotel is fabulous,” he says. “The
owners have a good art collection on
display. Brilliant weather allowed me
to wander with my sketchbook. What
really drew my attention were some
giant fallen oaks is various stages of
decay. One of them, by the river bank,
became my subject. Talk about spirit of
place, this was an enduring tragedy.”
His large, hung canvases would
make a dramatic statement in any
office reception or grand hotel room
and his smaller scale paintings and
prints bring would bring a point of
focus to any living room.
73

It’s been a challenging few years for the owners
and staff at Miskin Manor but our recent visit was
a chance to catch up with Amanda Rosenberg and
hear about the exciting developments at one of
our favourite venues.

PATORTRAITS
MISKIN MANOR

We understand there have been
some big changes at Miskin Manor
recently. Can you put us in the
picture?
Exciting changes, yes, and a few
challenges at the Hotel & Health Club
over the last three years that I have
been running the business.
The passing of my mother, just two
years ago, was a difficult time for all
of the family, friends and staff - the
business still had to operate and
function despite all the emotions of
losing a loved one.
We had always been a business
partnership and that had to be
reviewed. Also we had to decide in what
direction the family wanted to take the
business moving forward.
It was decided that after twenty-two
years we would become a Limited
Company - still family run but operated
differently, and with a clear and definite
picture of what we wanted for our
business and roles within it.

In our family, the women have always
been the drivers; my grandmother, my
mother and now me. So it goes without
saying, it’s in my genes.
What we love about being an
independent is that we can adapt,
change and make decisions very quickly.
We have a great team who support us
in moving the business forward. We
all want our guests to have the best
experience possible of Miskin Manor
Hotel, and a happy workforce is really
important to me as I know that this
filters down to the customer, and to all
of our suppliers that work with us.
We are still one of Wales’ leading,
privately owned wedding venues, but
we have so much more to offer that
you’re are not aware of. Our location,
just off the Junction 34 of the M4,
makes us a great place for conferences
and events with wonderful awardwinning gardens and grounds that
can be enjoyed during those moments
when you just want to “clear your
head”. You can hire us exclusively 74

for a wedding, corporate event or
private party, and lots of people take
advantage of this; what could be nicer
than being Lord or Lady of the Manor
for the day?
There are more parts of the business
that we are developing. The Health
Club, for example, will see lots of great
changes and improvements over the
next two years that will complement
the hotel. The other area that we have
made some significant changes is our
restaurant. We have enjoyed a great
reputation for many years. However,
the awareness that we were open to
non-residents seemed to be quite
limited and whilst the style of fine
dining appealed to some, others we
found were quite intimidated.
What we needed to do was to was
review all of our dining experiences
in the hotel and, working with the
AA Rosette Team, we were able to
identify exactly what we needed to do
to achieve our goals and ensure we
maintain our high standards.

With this in mind, we refreshed all areas
including the kitchen team and then
looked at everything with fresh eyes.

more interest in the room. So, the name
“Portraits at Miskin Manor” has been
born.

We worked on names and the feeling
we wanted to create in the restaurant
and the team threw all our ideas into
the pot. The last three years have
certainly been challenging but very
rewarding, and seeing it come together
has made all the hard work and effort
worthwhile.

The dining room had panels that were
not real oak as we have in the rest of
the hotel, so we decided to paint them
in a colour that would complement
the room. After many sample pots we
went with a Farrow & Ball colour. It’s
so different - we still have some other
touches to complete the look, but we
are really happy with the feedback so
far from our customers.

Why the name Portraits?
My father has always had an interest in
art and I’ve been trying to find a way to
show case his work as I’m so proud of
his talents. The idea came from this and
we think it works. The portraits are of
family, friends and acquaintances that
he’s met over the years.
He’s done quite a number of
commissions for people and when
you’re looking for the gift for someone
who’s got it all, this is the perfect
opportunity to see what can be done.
It’s a great talking piece and creates

A great new menu has been developed
by our new Head Chef, Tom, using local
seasonal produce, some home grown
from our gardens.
Please introduce us to your Chef and
his Brigade…
We are really happy to have Tom
Bowsher as our new Head Chef, who
has a wealth of experience. A former
Sous Chef at The Clink in Cardiff, he
has brought enthusiasm, innovative
food ideas and great motivation for all
of the team.

“A great new menu has been developed by our new
Head Chef, Tom, using local seasonal produce.”
We think of it as “Bistro Rosette”. We
have taken away the white linen on the
tables, but still maintaining the crisp
napkins and now have our wonderful
bespoke tables and chairs on full
display with nice glasses and cutlery
and, in doing so, we have created a
more contemporary look and feel for
the restaurant.
75

With Tom we then worked on getting
his team together to compliment and
support these new and exciting changes
and now after many months we are
where we want to be.
Continues overleaf...
Photography Kevin Moore

What style of cooking can diners
expect? What’s the style of cuisine?
We are aiming for ‘Bistro Rosette
Dining’, but we also have a more
relaxed menu - still at the same
standard that is available to eat in our
lounge areas, which appeals to some
of our regular corporate guests and, of
course, Sunday Lunch which is always
very popular.
Afternoon Tea is available from 2pm
and we do need a pre order as all is
cooked freshly every day.
Where does the Tom source his
produce?
We are really fortunate to be located
where we are; to pull on the wealth of
local, seasonal produce available to us
and we also have an extensive supply of
our own fresh herbs, and home-grown
vegetables.
We try where we can to use local,
Welsh produce and have our own
pastry section where we make our own
breads, cakes, and desserts.

We are now using fresh honey from our
four hives that we have on site in the
new menus.
This has always been something that
my mother has wanted and it’s so
wonderful to at last achieve some of her
dreams and wishes.
When are you open?
We are open daily for breakfast, daily
from 8am until 10pm. Lunch is served
from 12.30pm and, for dinner, the
restaurant starts evening service from
6.30pm.
We would advise that you check before
you arrived as we have days when
we are fully booked or are closed for
Exclusive Events.
Are you open for Christmas?
Open all the way through the Christmas
period for parties and events, and have
all the information is on our web site
www.miskin-manor.co.uk We are open
for Christmas Day - fully booked this
year already.
76

We know that families like to get
together over the seasonal time and
we have a Boxing Day and New Year’s
Day Buffet which is really proving really
popular, and is a great change to the
seasonal foods we’ll have all been eating.
We always recommend that you make a
booking to avoid any disappointment.
Please call us on our main number
01443 224204 or email reservations@
miskin-manor.co.uk and we will call you
back to confirm your requirements.

“Afternoon Tea is available
from 2pm and we do need
a pre order as all is cooked
freshly every day.”
Miskin Manor Hotel and Health Club
Pendoylan Road, Miskin CF72 8ND
01443 224 204
www. miskin-manor.co.uk

Everyone is looking for therapies or lifestyle changes that could improve their
health. Ozone therapy is a new one to us so we talked to Oscar Matsungo of
the Ozone Therapy Wellness Centre in Cathays to find out more.

OZONE THERAPY

What is Ozone Therapy and how
does it work?
Ozone therapy is a regenerative
therapy and refers to the process of
administering ozone gas into the body
to treat a disease/condition or wound.
It is a natural solution that utilizes the
bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own healing process to repair
damaged tissue, and bridges the gap
between non-operative treatments and
surgery. Ozone is a colourless gas made
up of three atoms of oxygen (O3).
Since 1870s ozone has been used to
treat medical conditions by stimulating
the immune system. Furthermore it
has been used to disinfect and treat
diseases and conditions.
Ozone Therapy stimulates the uptake
of oxygen by stimulating the DPG
(diphosphoglycerate) enzyme. The
DPG controls the movement of oxygen
from red blood cells to body tissues.
It supports the release of oxygen from
the hemoglobin molecule so that it can
be used by the cell. When cells get the
optimal amount of oxygen and function
properly, they help to prevent or inhibit
disease.
What are the claimed benefits of
Ozone therapy?
n Anti-aging
n Strengthens the immune system
n Detoxifies and neutralises viruses,
bacteria and fungi
n Kills cancer cells
n It is anti-inflammatory and
relieves pain
n Expedites post-surgery healing
n Decreases fat / improves metabolism
n Improves blood circulation

When should one have ozone therapy?
The human body is an exceptional and
complex machine. Like all machines
the body needs servicing (dusting,
changing of oil, etc) to ensure optimum
functioning. There is no stipulated time
to have ozone therapy. However, it is
better to have regular therapy to boost
wellness and prevent infections. There
are notable hot spots such as winter
season which elevate the infection levels
and as such preventative therapy is
encouraged.
Is it in any way painful?
Ozone therapy has been utilised and
heavily studied for more than a century.
Its effects are proven, consistent, safe
and with minimal and preventable side
effects. Ozone therapy is not in any way
painful.
How long does a session take?
A typical ozone therapy session last 30
minutes.
Is it expensive?
While a single session may appear costly
to the average household, the longterm health benefits far outweigh the
financial cost. Moreover, our interest in
the wellbeing of our local customers has
meant that our prices are cheaper than in
most places in the UK.
We at Ozone Therapy Wellness Centre
are very compassionate and it is reason
we invested in the technology because
we believe in health and wellness for all
and as such our prices reflect that. We
welcome people to come and experience
this technology.
80

Are there any health risks?
Uncontrolled inhalation of ozone can
cause chest pain, coughing, shortness of
breath and throat irritation. Inhalation
of ozone may also worsen chronic
respiratory diseases such as asthma and
compromise the ability of the body to
fight respiratory infections. However,
the chance of inhaling ozone while
undergoing therapy is negligible. We at
Ozone Therapy Wellness Centre take
strict precautions to prevent you from
inhaling ozone. Your health, wellness
and safety is our priority.
Do you have a website? Where can
readers find out more?
Certainly we have a website
(www.ozonetherapy.wales) that
provides you with lots of information
on ozone therapy and the various
treatments we provide. While you are
on the website you can connect with
us too via the chat button. Apart from
gaining information about the therapies
we provide, you will be able to book an
appointment convenient for yourself.

Ozone Therapy Wellness Centre
6A Dalcross Street, Cathays
Cardiff CF24 4UB
You can call or text on 07810 540488
www.ozonetherapy.wales
Readers are always advised to research any
treatment carefully and consult a doctor
before undertaking any health related procedure or therapy. City Life cannot endorse any
treatment. This advertorial is for information
purposes only.

Josh Llewellyn-Jones,
the man who went
from a 10% chance of
survival to exercising
non-stop for 24 hours
has his sights on a
world record.

In 1987, Josh was born with cystic
fibrosis. The life-limiting genetic
condition meant that his lungs
and digestive system can become
clogged and he wasn’t expected to
make it through the night. He defied
expectations then and he’s still
doing it today.
Thirty-one years later, Josh wasn’t
content with becoming one of only
five people in the world to complete
the World Physical Fitness Challenge in
2017. Now he wants to push himself
even further.
As part of the 24hrs4cf event in 2017,
Josh, from Cardiff, exercised non-stop
for 24 hours to raise awareness and
money for cystic fibrosis. He lifted 100
tonnes, cycled 100 miles, rowed twenty
miles, ran ten miles, cross-trained
for ten miles, swam two miles, and
completed 3,000 sit-ups, 1,000 press
ups and 1,000 squats.
Across social media, the 24hrs4cf event
reached eight million people all over
the world and inspired many people
living with cystic fibrosis.

24HRS4CF
Along with his family, Josh has helped
raise over £700,000 for cystic fibrosis
charities and he’s now set up his own
charity to encourage children with
cystic fibrosis to exercise called CF
Warriors. Josh explains, “My hope is, if
more children get involved in sporting
activities we can increase their life
expectancy, just like I have.”

Following on from the success of 2017,
Josh has his sights on lifting 1,000,000
kilos in 24 hours which will be the most
anyone has ever lifted in a day. That’s
the equivalent of three Boeing 747s
and he’ll have to average 700 kilos per
minute to reach his target. It took place
at RAF St Athan on 29th September,
2018.
One aspect of 24hrs4cf was to raise the
general awareness about cystic fibrosis
but, for Josh, his main aim was always
to get people with CF exercising. “It’s
what’s kept me alive,” he explains. “At
31, statistics show that I shouldn’t be
very well at all but I’m the fittest I’ve
ever been. I never imagined that the
message would reach so many people
in year one.
81

The bar has been set high for year two
but I like a challenge!

“We’ve had a fantastic result by securing
RAF St Athan for this world record
attempt and I even have two ex-marines
on my training team to help get me
through. The setting is absolutely
perfect and the team over there are fully
behind me in wanting to reach even
more than the 8 million people we did
last year!”

“Josh has his sights on
lifting 1,000,000 kilos
in 24 hours which ”
To find out more about 24hrs4cf and
Josh’s world record attempt, visit
www.24hrs4cf.com
josh@joshlj24.com
@JoshLJ24
@JoshLJ24
@JoshLJ24

EUROPEAN SCANNING
The European Scanning Centre
looks more like a boutique hotel
than a medical centre. We met with
manager Melanie to find out more.

Please tell us about the ESC team...
Melanie is Centre Manager along with
two Radiographers (Carol-Ann and Ria).
The Reception staff are Lisa and Nicola.

Please tell us about the facility...
The facility in Cardiff comprises of a
new Open and Upright MRI Scanner,
the only one of its type in Wales.
n The scanner is completely open
above and to the front and rear,
thereby avoiding claustrophobia.
n Patients can be scanned in their
position of pain whether it is sitting,
standing, bending or lying down.
n Extra wide space ensures larger
patients feel comfortable and relaxed
during the scan.

The Radiographers have many years
experience of working in MRI scanners
across South Wales - both in the NHS
and private sector. Melanie previously
worked in the Open MRI scanner,
which was in the same premises as
European Scanning Centre, for over
fifteen years.
Tell us about the ambience and
interior décor of the centre...
The Centre has been carefully designed
with patient comfort at the forefront
with a warm and welcoming reception
area and staff who have been specially
chosen for their ability to put patients
at ease. We have invested in a five
star environment where the emphasis
is on patient comfort & relaxation.
Whilst being scanned, patients are able
to watch television, listen to the radio
or are welcome to bring in their music
of choice.

“The scanner is U shaped
so is open above.”
82

Two way audio facilities allow our
radiographers to communicate and
reassure patients during their scan and
the viewing window ensures that both
the patient and the radiographer are
always in the line of vision.
How does the scanner work?
The scanner is a large super
conducting magnet - it is the only
superconductive MRI scanner that
enables fully open and upright imaging
of the spine and joints, allowing
patients to be scanned in a non
claustrophobic and full weight bearing
position. Imaging in the sitting or
standing position can provide a more
accurate diagnosis thus improving
overall patient outcome.
It is a more patient friendly scanner
than the usual tunnel scanners - so
more suited to patients who are
anxious, claustrophobic or are unable
to lie down.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Ideally it is better to be referred
for a scan by your GP, a consultant,
physiotherapist, chiropractor or
osteopath. However we do accept self
referrals for certain scans.

CENTRE OPEN & UPRIGHT MRI
TESTIMONIALS

What practitioners and
patients say...
Patients report feeling reassured by the
calm environment and friendly staff.
Excellent service with timely reporting.
Dr D Rajender Kumar
Audiovestibular Medicine
The whole experience made me feel at
ease which was down to the staff and
the environment. Thank you very much.
Mark Owen

How quickly are results generated?
We aim to get the results back to the
referrer within forty-eight hours.
How many patients can you see?
It depends on the part of the body and
how many areas we need to examine.
We tailor appointments to suit the
needs of the patient as some patients
have specific mobility issues or other
needs that need extra time.

We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to rush our patients
as many need more time for the
examination than the standard closed
MRI scanner due to claustrophobia or
mobility issues.
How long does the scan take?
Each part we scan takes approx thirty
minutes but we allow more time for the
appointment so that patients can get
comfortable in the scan room.
83

Friendly, polite and professional
staff that put me at ease from the
minute I arrived. I would highly
recommend their services. A
completely different experience to
one I had at a previous hospital.
Catherine Rush
European Scanning Centre Cardiff
Cardiff Gate Business Park
Unit G, Copse Walk, Cardiff
CF23 8RB
02920 731 654
www.europeanscanning.com

Top 10 things to do at...

pyle
garden
village

Afternoon Tea at The Olive Tree
At just £14.99 for two persons, you will receive 2 scones with jam and
clotted cream, choice of two sandwiches, choice of 2 slices of cake
and tea or coffee. Booking is advised but not necessary and is taken
via telephone or Facebook message.
Monday- Saturday 9am-4.30pm and Sunday 10am-3pm. Tel: 01656 745948

Visit the small animals at Pet Stop
The garden centre’s own animal emporium houses an array of small
animals which are available to visit and purchase. Experience up close,
Guinea Pigs, Rabbits, Hamsters, Reptiles, Birds and much more. Learn
more about caring for these animals and receive expert advice on the
right pet for your family before kitting them out with every accessory
they need for a happy and healthy life.
Monday- Saturday 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Tel: 01656 741443

Choose your favourite scent
At Leaf interiors, spend some time choosing your favourite smelling
fragrances to fill you home. Whether you choose a candle or a diffuser,
their unique brands offer ranges that can add every personality in the
form of a scent. One of our favourites are Silverbirch & Black Pepper by
Stoneglow and Inspiritus by St. Eval.
Monday- Saturday 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Tel: 01656 745021

Bring your Fur-babies for a day out
Pyle Garden Village is a dog friendly site (with the exception of the
Olive Tree Restaurant inside seating area) meaning there’s no excuse to
not bring ALL of the family! Treat your dog to a pamper session at
Paws Galore, who offer tailored grooming packages for spoilt pups.
Book an appointment on 01656 856784

Get the celebrity experience
Take the stress out of getting ready for a day or evening out with the
expert team at Salon Loulou. From just £28 per person, you can enjoy
a true celebrity ‘glam session.’ You’ll come away with full party make
up and a blowdry of your choice. Perfect for weddings and parties or
if you’re looking for some inspiration for a new look.
Mon- Sat 9.30am-5.30pm, late night until 8pm on Thursday. Tel: 01656 741653

Treat someone you love
The in-house florist, Rachel of The Dancing Daffodil can create
bespoke hand tied floral arrangements for you to take away as a
gift. Pair this with a great tasting bottle from Wall 2 Wall Wines
and you’ll have one happy recipient. If that person is really special
you could also add a piece from the extensive giftware department
complete with gift wrapping service. Easy-peasy!
Monday- Saturday 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Tel: 01656 741443

Experience a styling session
With 6 years in business and three very different directors’ input,
Loulou Boutique is the perfect destination to revamp your look
or refresh your wardrobe with some key pieces. Stocking brands
such as Masai, Blank London and Joseph Ribkoff, the ladies at
Loulou will give honest and helpful advice on how to best dress
your shape, size and personality. No appointment necessary.
Monday- Saturday 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Tel: 01656 749841

Enjoy live music with friends
Friday Night @ The Olive Tree is a great evening out with family or
friends where you can enjoy a meal, drinks and live entertainment.
Music varies from local singer-songwriters to tribute acts and bands.
With it’s rustic interiors, freshly cooked menu the Olive Tree provides
an equally amazing evening setting despite it’s daytime popularity.
Monday- Saturday 9am-4.30pm and Sunday 10am-3pm. Tel: 01656 745948

Get organised for Christmas
Are you a Christmas early bird? From October, Pyle Garden Centre
have the most exquisite Christmas displays with decorations and
lights as well as real and artificial Christmas trees. Keep an eye on
their Facebook page for events such as Treefest starting at the end
of November where you can enjoy mulled wine and select your
favourite tree with huge discounts.
Monday- Saturday 9am-5.30pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Tel: 01656 741443

Book your little one’s in for a workshop
In recent months, Pyle Garden Village have been hosting Children’s
events and workshops with specially trained actors who can engage
children for an hour or so whilst parents and guardians enjoy a coffee
or a nose around the different concessions. From gardening themed
to seasonal workshops, head to the online booking page to see what’s
on offer. www.PyleGardenVillageEvents.co.uk

NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
ELF SCHOOL
Selected dates between 17th November - 23rd December
£18 Per Child
MULTIPLE SESSIONS AVAILABLE

CHRISTMAS

S A N TA’ S A R R I VA L
Saturday 24th November

Free event no booking required

T E A W I T H S A N TA
Between Mon 3rd & Thu 20th December

S A N TA’ S G R O T T O
Every weekend in December and the week before Christmas
£7.50 per child

keep up to date with the
latest events as they are
announced by following us
on our social medias

pyle
garden
village

01656 741443

COMING SOON TO PYLE GARDEN VILLAGE...
Are you missing out on the fresh
air and freedom of being more
active or mobile?
We at Village Mobility will help
you to regain your independence
with our superb quality products.
Our experts are on hand to give
you help and guidance on a full
range of lifestyle and sports aids
to improve your comfort and
quality of life.

OPENING SATURDAY 13TH OCTOBER
We are located behind the garden centre tills 12:00 - 3:00pm

Hosted by Derek â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Weathermanâ&#x20AC;? Brockway | Coffee and cake for all visitors

You know that feeling? You notice your sleeves are just a little too short,
and your cartoon rabbit socks are clearly on show below your trouser legs?
It’s probably a sign you’ve outgrown your current outfit. A sign that it’s time
to change.

LEWIS BALLARD

At Lewis Ballard Accountants
these signs were clear to see.
We kept growing. Yet we were still
determined to give the exceptional
customer service we’re so proud
of. It was a challenge not to spread
ourselves too thin.

Under Lewis Ballard, Harris and Co
are evolving, ditching paper in favour
of, not only the digital practices of
modern accountancy, but the cloud
accounting and forecasting skills of
the future. We’ve shown them Xero
and 4sight and it’s love at first sight.

We needed a change and when we had
an opportunity we grabbed it with both
hands! Fortunately, they grabbed back.

Harris and Co are bringing so much to
the table. A small team of 7 with the
combined experience of over a hundred
years, they have a lot to show us.

Lewis Ballard and Harris and Co
Consulting have come together to
build a brilliant business, bringing
years of experience and youthful digital
expertise together. Giving clients a new
level of business support and tax advice
to really drive their businesses forward.

“We’re long established
locally and nationally.”

“We all see this as a great move for
everyone at Lewis Ballard, Harris and
Co and both sets of clients.” explains
Neil Ballard MD.
“We’re long established locally and
nationally, as innovative and proactive
accountants, with a young, dynamic
team. By bringing the more mature
Harris and Co team on board we are
88

creating a perfect balance between
youth and experience to benefit
everyone involved. We welcomed
Mervyn and Kath Harris and their team
to Celtic House on the 1st September
2018 and are certain everyone will soon
benefit from the greater strength in
depth on offer.”
Tax specialist Kathryn Harris MD
agrees “This move creates a sensational
opportunity to provide added strength
in depth to both businesses from which
our current and future clients will
benefit enormously.”
Mervyn Harris Strategic Director adds
“From the outset we have endeavoured
to create a client focussed business and
to ensure we’re fully up to date with
technology as well as best accounting
and tax practices for the benefit of all of
our combined clients.

This exciting opportunity creates a 25+
strong practice providing a first-class
service at exceptional value.”
“The Harris and Co team will
continue to work with their existing
clients, who will now benefit from
the digital wizardry of our amazing
team. And our team and clients will
benefit from the kind of guidance
and expertise that only years of
experience can bring. It really is a
win win all round!” Jan Ballard HR
Director confirms, adding with a smile
“Not to dress it up too much - We
saw the signs, changed the outfit and
now we’re a perfect fit for all your
accountancy and tax needs!”

Are you looking to change for
the better too? Give us a ring on
02920735502 now, our first meeting
is free!
89

NEW SEASON
from Leekes – the home experts

From statement furniture pieces
to on-trend accessories at Leekes
you’ll discover inspirational ideas
to update your look.
Visit us in store today or shop
online and let us help you create
your beautiful home.

The natural strength of aluminium
provides slim lines with less frame and
more glass, letting light flood into your
property. Aluminium is highly resistant
to corrosion, offering you a sleek design
that’s built to last.

Bi-fold Doors • Sliding Doors • Windows • Roof Lights

Affordable
style, made to
measure...

Contact us for a free
no obligation quote
@ABGlassSwansea

All our products are manufactured to order at our
purpose-built premises and delivered direct to our clients
throughout the UK.
Our 25+ years of experience and commitment to quality
ensures you receive the best products with great
customer service, at a competitive price.

For the past 20 years, Gareth Shaw
has been in the building industry. He
renovated his first house 15 years ago
and has built up an enviable reputation
in his field. Vale Life asks Gareth “What’s
the best way to add value to your home?”
His answer?

GO FOR A LOFT
CONVERSION
Why a loft conversion? It’s the
easiest way to get an extra bedroom
and bathroom.

One such customer wanted to add extra
additional rooms to his home and this is
what he had to say about Gareth’s work.

Not particularly disruptive, either, as
most of the work can be done from
outside. The key thing is to make sure
access to the loft is easy and that the
conversion fits the rest of the house,
rather than looking grafted on. Spend
£20,000 on a loft conversion and you
can add £40,000 value to your house.
A loft conversion adds an average 12.5
per cent to the selling price.

“Gareth and his team transformed
our house from a one bedroomed
bungalow to a 4/5 bedroom modern
house. His eye for detail and design,
combined with his trustworthiness
and superb interior finish and design
(attributable to the very talented
interior designer Missy Shaw) have
given us a finish we could not
have dreamed of. We are beyond

Heath Windows & Doors Ltd are a professional, family-run company
using local suppliers to deliver outstanding service and quality, as standard.

We use only the best, most advanced products on the market, and back this up with
superior service from a dedicated team. Feel free to check out our 100% genuine, verified
customer reviews on AllChecked, Facebook, Which? And Google.

www.heathwindowsltd.co.uk
02920 650 854

@ enquiries@heathwindowsltd.co.uk

Unit 105, Portmanmoor Road Industrial Estate, Cardiff, CF24 5HB
93

COME VISIT US
We have a fully kitted-out showroom
displaying Composite Doors, Aluminium
Bi-Folding Doors, Bay Windows, and
much more

After reading an article on Future Ideal Homes
in Vale Life, Steve and Helen Clarke knew exactly
who to call when they need work at their home
in Llantwit Major. We chatted to Helen to find
out more.

FUTURE IDEAL HOMES

Who occupies your home?
Myself, my husband Steve and children
Ellie 21, Cari 17 and João 7, and dog
Annie.
How long have you lived there?
Since December 1999.
How did you hear about Future Ideal
Homes?
From reading a feature in a recent Vale
Life magazine.
Did you shop around before you
chose Future?
Yes. We tried various local and national
companies but decided on Future.
What work did they do for you
and why?
We needed a new tile replacement roof
plus refreshed windows and seals. We
went for the Guadian tiled roof system.
Did you find them easy to
work with?
They were very accommodating,
considerate, professional, clean
and tidy.

The prices weren’t that different to
other companies that we rang. We
weren’t quite ready to go ahead when
Craig came to quote but he rang us
from time to time to see how we were
doing. The other companies didn’t even
ring back. He wasn’t pushy at all – just
friendly and professional.

Would you use Future again?
We are looking at changing our doors
so will be going back to them soon.
Would you be happy to recommend
Future to others?
Yes, we would, and we have already had
some potential clients visit us.

Who did you deal with at the
company?
We worked with owner Craig
Harewood.
What difference has the work made
to the way you use your room now?
Before Future, we couldn’t use the
room properly. It was too hot in the
summer and too cold in the winter.
We had to keep the blinds closed
and the doors open. We found that
we used to have to sit in the lounge
which was in the other side of the
house. We’ve bought two settees now
and want to spend time here. We’ve
not experienced a winter yet but we’re
hoping it will be a lot more comfortable
to sit in.
94

Kaely Backland of Usk welcomed us into her beautiful home and
told us why she chose to work with Alexander James Bifold.
How did you hear about
Alexander James?
I wanted some beautiful bifold doors.
I researched online and found the
Alexander James Bifolds website. I liked
the look of it. It looked very professional
and gave me the confidence to give the
company a call.
What made you choose to work with
Alexander James?
They came across very professional,
both on the phone and when their
representative, Andrew, initially came
out to talk about their products and
service before and after installation.
What work did Alexander James carry
out for you?
They installed a set of bi-folding doors
with four doors which open on to the
garden.
What difference have the doors made
to the way you live?
I already had PVC bi folding doors which
were a substandard product and not fit
for purpose. After talking with Andrew
from Alexander James, and going with
his advice to choose their aluminium
product, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be happier. The
doors are not only a better quality
product but, aesthetically, they are more
pleasing - especially since I could almost
choose any colour I wanted and, finally,
the big plus - they actually work! Before
I hardly bothered opening the PVC
doors but now I use them all the time.
I was so pleased with the work from this
company that I have been back to fit all
new windows throughout the property
as well!

An extended detached period family home set in a spectacular location adjacent to the Old Bishop’s Palace, directly
opposite the Cathedral. Characterful, detached three bedroom cottage with well-maintained lawned and paved
garden with off-road parking for several vehichles, within easy walking distance of Llandaff high street and the
highly regarded Cathedral School. Accessed from the road via wrought iron gates leading to a flagstone pathway
with access to a level, lawned garden with steps up to a paved patio surrounded by pretty flower borders and enjoys
an elevated view of The Cathedral. There is also gated off-road parking on a driveway adjacent to the garden.

Beechwood Hollow

Springfield House

Attractive, high quality five
bedroom detached five bedroom
house in an exceptional position
with panoramic views.
Includes land and stables
extending to 4.3 acres including
woodland and pasture land
with stabling.

Exceptional, modern detached
four large bedroom family house
extending to approximately 2,800
square feet, providing exceptional
accommodation with a generous
garden plot in a delightful semirural village setting. Llysworney
is a very pretty and extremely
desireable village.

Immaculately presented four/
five bedroom spacious family
home with flexible living
accommodation, wide driveway,
double garage and mature
well-kept level lawned gardens
to front and rear. Country views.
Easy walking distance to the
local shop and garden centre.

Stylish, detached four bedroom family home (believed to date back to the 1800s in part) which has been extended
by the present owners to offer beautifully presented accommodation which is both spacious and contemporary.
Lovely mature gardens with tiered lawns, ornate pond and gravelled seating area with views of the countryside
beyond. The property enjoys easy access to country walks. Chocolate box village with highly regarded thatched pub/
restaurant with dog walking on St Hilary Common. Just a short drive from the popular market town of Cowbridge.
Gravelled driveway parking and single garage. Potential to extend further (Approved Planning Permission).

The Sycamores

Llysworney, Vale of Glamorgan

7 Cae Rhedyn

This charming, extended,
detached stone-built four
bedroom character house, in part
dating back to approximately
1800 has a large private garden.
Extensive parking with detached
garage in a secluded semi-rural
village setting close to the market
town of Cowbridge.

Detached, four Double Bedroom
modern family house in lovely
village location with excellent
family living accommodation,
parking, double garage and
wonderful views across the Village.
Wide range of Village amenities
and easy access to Cowbridge.

£495,000

£449,500

The Toll House
1 Derwen Road
Bridgend CF31 1LH
01656 660036

Bryn Y Fedwen Farm

Graig Penllyn

33 Alfred Street
Neath
SA11 1EH
01639 639541

Ystradowen, Vale of Glamorgan

Real pportunity to acquire a fine
rural smallholding of unusual
quality. Stone built Welsh
longhouse style farmhouse with
outbuildings centrally located in
a fine block of ground extending
to approximately 18 acres with
exceptional views in all directions
No Development Clawback.
Offers in excess of

121 Park Lane
London
W1K 7AG
020 7079 1477

£1,000,000

Welcome to Vale Life Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
Social Life section, a veritable
whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who in and around the Vale.

SOCIAL L IFE
COWBRIDGE

Cookery Demonstration
at Topstak, Cowbridge

What a great response to the Everhot
Cookery Demonstration at Topstak
recently.
The guest chef had the audience
entertained whilst cooking a variety of
dishes on the Everhot range cooker.
These events are proving very popular
and interested parties are invited to visit
the Topstak Facebook page for future
events. Booking is recommended!
Unit 42, Vale Business Park, Llandow
Cowbridge CF71 7PF
01446 771567
www.topstak.co.uk

102

LLANT WIT MAJOR

Major Pride
Attitude is everything
Llantwit Major held its first pride
event this summer and, being
Llantwit, they put their individual
spin on celebrating diversity.
Intended to be much different to city
Pride events, organiser Rhodri Ellis
Owen was keen to feature attractions
such as a dog show and classic car
display. By all accounts, the event was
a great success. “I think in many ways
we are a starting point, a blueprint for
other communities and small towns
across Wales,” said Rhodri, who moved
to Llantwit Major with his partner
eighteen months ago and said they
were met with a “vibrant and warm
welcome”.
Rhian Richards, one of the Major
Pride dog show judges said, “This
was a fun day celebrating diversity,
and also a firm reminder that sexual
discrimination does not have a place in
modern society.”
Lu Thomas, chairman of Pride Cymru,
said, “Hopefully this can inspire small
towns, villages across Wales to do
something similar and we at Pride
Cymru are very happy to support the
event in any way we can.”
Hopefully Major Pride will be even
bigger and better next year. Watch
this space.
Photography Kevin Moore

103

ONE TO WATCH

Artist Martin Briggs
has it MADE
Invited guests attended the Private
View of Intent, a new body of work by
emerging talent, Martin Briggs on the
evening of 7th September.
The evening was extremely enjoyable
with a short presentation by MADEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
owner Zoe Gingell and Martin Briggs
talked about his work and his passion
for his art since retiring as a financial
advisor. Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work was on display
until Sunday 23 September 2018 but
if you missed it, he pops up again this
November at the Sustainable Studio on
Curran Road.
Cardiff MADE
41 Lochaber Street, Roath, Cardiff CF24 3LS
Owner Zoe Gingell - zoeg@cardiffmade.org
Photography Kevin Moore

104

ONE TO WATCH

Bridgend Business
Forum Awards 2018
Bridgend Business Forum celebrated
the shining lights of the local business
community recently, as the winners of
the Bridgend Business Forum awards
2018 were revealed at a glittering gala
dinner and awards ceremony held at
the Coed-Y-Mwstwr Hotel, Bridgend.
Over 220 business professionals attended
the awards ceremony including Carwyn
Jones, AM for Bridgend and Patron of
Bridgend Business Forum, eager to
discover who the all-important winners
of the sixth, annual Bridgend business
awards sponsored by Rockwool UK and
supported by Bridgend County Borough
Council would be.
Hosted by BBC presenter and broadcaster,
Sian Lloyd, the awards saw nine lucky
businesses pick up awards in a range of
categories, from ‘Business Student of the
Year’ to the ‘Creative Industries Award’.
The team at Magenta (who regularly
feature in Vale Life) were thrilled to be
finalists at the Bridgend Business Forum
awards. The event was a wonderful
celebration of Bridgend’s thriving business
community, highlighting some fantastic
achievements from all the winners.
www.bridgend.gov.uk

105

We love learning about people who live in the Vale.
Michael Morgan shares his story with us. Not your
typical Solicitor, I think you’ll agree!

THE L AST WORD

How long have you lived in Peterstonsuper-Ely?
I was born in Peterson 60 years ago.
My family have lived in Peterston and
Pendoylan for over 250 years.
What do you enjoy most about living
where you live?
The sense of community where people
know and look out for one another.
We have two pubs, a Church, a Chapel
and Village Hall with many sections for
all ages. There are Football and Cricket
Clubs – it’s like Midsommer Murders
without the murders.
Who lives in your home with you?
My wife of 23 years Clare, a drama
teacher at Llandaff Cathedral School,
daughter Isobel aged 19 (now away at
University) son Hugo aged 13, various
dogs, horses, ponies, a goat and a donkey.
What do you do for a living?
I am a director of Vale Solicitors
Advocates & Mediators.
What services does the company
offer?
We are a traditional country practice
and, although we are a small firm, as
members of Legal Network Wales we can
assist in any kind of legal matter.
How long have you worked there and
what do you enjoy about it?
I qualified with the firm (then Gwyn
and Gwyn) in 1984. I enjoy the variety
of people that we represent. At the grim
end, I have sat in cells with murderers,
and in hospital wards to make death bed
wills. At the happy end, I have watched
businesses grow and helped hundreds
of people move home.

I particularly enjoy my role as a Civil and
Commercial Mediator helping people
find ways to conclude disputes before
they end up in Court.
What geographical areas does the
business cover?
Principally we act for clients in Cardiff,
The Vale of Glamorgan and south Wales
as we prefer to meet all our clients
in person, but we do act for people
throughout England and Wales.
What do you enjoy doing in your
downtime?
I follow my son and daughter in their
various endeavours. I am training
our new labrador pup, Arthur and
rehearsing Matilda the Donkey ready
for Christmas Nativities. As a family, we
are all rather dramatic! We have helped
to earn thousands for charities with our
Fawlty Towers performances and this
year have been at the Cardiff Open Air
Theatre Festival in Dad’s Army. Currently,
I am rehearsing for the Village Panto. (I
am a Prince this year and get to sing Wild
Thing by The Troggs).
Where do you like to eat out?
We support our local pubs The
Sportsman’s Rest and Three Horse Shoes
who both serve excellent fayre. We also
love Illtyd’s 216 in Llantwit Major and
the Mughal in Cowbridge.
What three words describe you?
Loyal, Thoughtful and Vague.
What drives you?
Whatever is best for my family. My
personal ambition to win the Men’s
Cookery Competition in our annual
Village Show.
106

What makes you laugh?
I like the good comedians from Jack
Benny to Jack Dee. For TV it has to be
Blackadder, Fawlty Towers and Dad’s
Army. Live theatre is the best - we loved
The Play that Goes Wrong and are
looking forward to The Comedy about
a Bank Robbery at the New Theatre this
autumn.
What Motivates You?
Preserving our environment and quality
of life for our children and our older
generations . I am a Vale of Glamorgan
Councillor and in that role my
particular concern is proper resources
and accommodation of our ageing
population. By 2035 the population
in the Vale aged over 75 is expected to
increase by 70%. I shall be one of them!
Where do you see yourself in five
years’ time?
Still alive hopefully. I don’t believe in
long term plans. Enjoy every day. In the
words of Basil Fawlty: ”Zoom . What was
that? That was your life, mate.That was
quick , do I get another? Sorry mate,
that’s your lot!“

“The sense of community
where people know and
look out for one another.”
Vale Solicitors Advocates & Mediators
1 Boverton Road, Llantwit Major
CF61 1XZ
01446-792535
www.valesolicitors.com

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Images are indicative only. Details correct at time of going to print.

Tinkinswood Green

Cowbridge Road, St Nicholas, Vale of Glamorgan CF5 6SH

See website for opening times
Call: 01446 474241
Visit: redrow.co.uk/tinkinswood